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Special Chopin Concert: A Celebration of Musical Excellence

On October 8, 2025, at 19:00, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, in collaboration with the Piano Teachers' National Association (PTNA), will host a special concert at the prestigious Suntory Hall in Tokyo. This concert aims to commemorate the excitement surrounding the Chopin International Piano Competition, taking place just days later. Featuring performances by notable past finalists and winners, this event promises to deliver a unique opportunity for piano enthusiasts and music lovers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Chopin's music.

In the lead-up to the concert, anticipation is building as the names of competitors moving forward to the second round of the competition are announced. The special concert will showcase the exceptional talents of award-winning pianists, including Shohei Sekimoto, who achieved fourth place in the 2005 Chopin Competition, and Yukiko Furumi, a semi-finalist from the 2021 competition. The evening will be conducted by Yukio Yokoyama, known for his deep understanding of Chopin’s works, having successfully conducted numerous full-cycle Chopin concerts.

Artists of the Evening

1. Yukio Yokoyama (Conductor): Often referred to as "the encyclopedia of Chopin", Yokoyama secured third place in the 1990 Chopin International Piano Competition, becoming the youngest Japanese to do so. His extensive experience with orchestras, including the Japan Philharmonic, ensures an outstanding performance. With numerous accolades, including a world record for a 14-hour concert celebrating Chopin’s works, Yokoyama brings a wealth of artistic insight and a passion for Chopin that promises to elevate the concert to new heights.

2. Shohei Sekimoto (Piano): After a 20-year hiatus from performing Chopin's concertos, Sekimoto returns to the stage, ready to share his profound understanding of Chopin’s masterworks. As an internationally recognized artist, Sekimoto's refined interpretation of Chopin will resonate with audiences, reflecting the growth he has achieved during his illustrious career since participating in the competition.

3. Yukiko Furumi (Piano): Known for her elegant interpretations, Furumi was highly praised for her performance of Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in the 2021 Chopin Competition. With the support of Yokoyama and the Japan Philharmonic, she will showcase her vibrant pianism in this concert, illustrating her artistic journey's latest phase.

Concert Program

The concert will feature the following pieces:

• - Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21
• - Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11

Additional pieces may be included to enrich the experience.

Ticket Information

Tickets for this highly anticipated event will go on sale starting July 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with prices set as follows:

• - S Seat: ¥9,000
• - A Seat: ¥7,500
• - B Seat: ¥6,500
• - C Seat: ¥5,000
• - P Seat: ¥4,000
• - Ys Seat: ¥2,500 (for patrons 25 and under, applicable to all seats except S)

Tickets can be purchased through the Japan Philharmonic Service Center or online via various authorized sales platforms.

This concert is not only a celebration of Chopin’s art but also a testament to the enduring legacy of both the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and the PTNA. As they continue to provide cultural enrichment, this concert offers a bridge between the past and the future of piano music.

Conclusion

Don’t miss this chance to experience the depth and beauty of Chopin’s music.
Join the Japan Philharmonic and PTNA in celebrating the artistry of these remarkable musicians this October! For inquiries, please contact the Japan Philharmonic Service Center at 03-5378-5911.