Naoki Fukui Appointed as the New Chair of Musashino Academy of Music

Appointment of Naoki Fukui as Chairman

On June 12, 2025, a board meeting held at the Musashino Academy of Music led to the appointment of Naoki Fukui as the new chairman of the institution. This significant leadership change marks a new chapter for the academy as it continues to foster musical education in Japan.

Background of Naoki Fukui

Naoki Fukui has an impressive academic background, having graduated from Keio University with a degree in Economics in March 1993. He subsequently earned a Master’s degree in music performance, specializing in instrumental music, from the Musashino Academy of Music’s graduate school in March 1995. His pursuit of excellence in music education was furthered with studies at the Munich University of Music and Performing Arts, which he attended until March 1998.

Fukui has built a notable career since then, commencing as a piano professor at the Musashino Academy of Music in April 2007. His dedication and expertise quickly led him to take on various roles, including becoming a director of the academy in March 2010, serving as the vice president from April 2015 until March 2020, and ultimately ascending to the presidency of the academy in April 2020. He also holds the position of principal at the Musashino Academy of Music High School since April 2020.

Affiliations and Leadership Roles

Throughout his career, Fukui has actively participated in numerous organizations pertinent to music education and culture. He has been a board member of the Tokyo Niki Kai since June 2014 and a director of the Nerima City Cultural Promotion Association since April 2017. His commitment to advancing music education is apparent in his recent role as the president of the All-Japan Music Education Research Association, which he took on in April 2023. Furthermore, he has been appointed as a board member of the Japan Private Educational Association and the University Accreditation Association in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Recently, in June 2025, he became a council member of the Uehara Art Museum.

Achievements and Awards

Fukui's contributions to the music landscape have not gone unnoticed. Among his accolades, he received the prestigious Kreutzer Prize in March 1995, followed by the Grand Prix at the Music & Earth International Music Competition in Bulgaria in April 1999. His outstanding performance was celebrated further when he was awarded the Jules City Commemorative Silver Medal by the Mayor of Jules, Hungary, in October 2019. Most recently, in February 2024, he was honored with the Shinso Kanichi Music Award for contributions to music culture.

Looking Ahead

As Fukui steps into the role of chairman, he brings a wealth of experience and a vision for the future of the Musashino Academy of Music. His focus will likely be on enhancing educational programs, fostering talent, and further establishing the academy as a leading institution in music education. The board and community are eager to see how new leadership will influence the academy’s growth and impact on music education as a whole.

For more information about the Musashino Academy of Music, visit their official website: Musashino Academy of Music.