Rekindling Musical Heritage: Naoto Otomo Joins Tokyo Academy Chorus for Verdi's Requiem

The upcoming performance of Verdi's Requiem as part of the 71st Regular Concert by the Tokyo Academy Chorus marks a poignant reunion. Conducted by Naoto Otomo, this concert will take place on September 21, 2026, at the Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, New Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Tickets are currently available through Confetti, managed by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. based in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

A Project Cherishing Akiyama's Legacy

This concert is the second installment of a project initiated by Kazuyoshi Akiyama, a beloved conductor of the Tokyo Academy Chorus, who sadly passed away last year. Akiyama had planned a trilogy of major works to be performed with the chorus over three years, featuring Brahms' German Requiem, Verdi's Requiem, and Beethoven's Missa Solemnis. Although he was unable to conduct the performances himself, the chorus is committed to fulfilling this vision in honor of his legacy, embarking on a journey to bring these masterpieces to life.

Naoto Otomo's Triumphant Return

Naoto Otomo studied under Akiyama at Toho Gakuen School of Music and actively participated in leading the Tokyo Academy Chorus as his assistant. Together, they created memorable performances of large-scale works such as Bernstein's Kaddish and Orff's Carmina Burana. Responding to the chorus's heartfelt desire to continue Akiyama's vision for Verdi's Requiem, Otomo will grace the concert stage for the first time with the chorus in over 31 years.

A Stellar Soloist Line-Up

The concert will feature a distinguished array of soloists who have shared significant performances with Akiyama and the Tokyo Academy Chorus throughout the years. Their familiarity and shared history are expected to bring a depth and richness to the interpretation of the work, enhancing the audience's experience.

Verdi's Requiem: A Dramatic Exploration of Death and Fate

Verdi’s Requiem is an exploration of human mortality and fate, presented with dramatic flair characteristic of the opera composer. The forceful Dies irae surges forth, met by serene prayers and reflections within the music. This monumental work embodies both the solemnity of religious composition and the dramatic intensity of opera, promising a profound live experience for all who attend.

Concert Details

Event Overview

- Performance: Tokyo Academy Chorus 71st Regular Concert - Verdi’s Requiem
- Date: September 21, 2026 (Monday, Holiday)
- Venue: Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall (3-20-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo)

Featured Performers:

- Conductor: Naoto Otomo
- Soloists: Soprano Saki Nakagami, Alto Akiko Yachiune, Tenor Naoki Miyazato, Bass Kenichi Kano
- Orchestra: Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra
- Chorus Conductor: Minako Kimura
- Chorus: Tokyo Academy Chorus

Concert Schedule

Date: September 21, 2026
Time: 16:00 (Doors open at 15:15)

Ticket Prices

- S Ticket: ¥6,000
- A Ticket: ¥5,000
- B Ticket: ¥4,000
- C Ticket: ¥3,000

(All reserved seating, including tax)

Tickets can be purchased from the Confetti website, providing a smooth buying process and membership benefits.