#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Academy Chorus #Hikotarou Yazaki #Brahms German Requiem

Tokyo Academy Chorus' 70th Regular Concert

The Tokyo Academy Chorus is set to celebrate its 70th regular concert on November 1, 2025, at the prestigious Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Under the baton of conductor Hikotarou Yazaki, the chorus will perform Brahms' masterpiece, German Requiem, in a performance that honors the legacy of former musical director Kazuyoshi Akiyama.

The Story Behind the Concert

The Tokyo Academy Chorus, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024, faced a poignant moment earlier this year when they were dealt the sudden loss of their esteemed musical director, Kazuyoshi Akiyama. Just before the choir was set to present their 69th regular concert featuring Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, Akiyama passed away unexpectedly, bringing sorrow to the ensemble that he had nurtured for 57 years. A memorial concert on February 24, 2025, saw the chorus deliver heartfelt performances that resonated deeply with a full audience, on social media, the fervor of their interpretations was marked under the hashtag Konzert von Herzen.

In Akiyama’s memory, the choir has vowed to continue with a three-year performance project that compels them forward. The first installment showcases Brahms' German Requiem, a piece often described as a reflection on life and death, emphasizing the beauty of human experience. This performance marks the first collaboration between the Academy Chorus and Hikotarou Yazaki, a seasoned conductor based in France.

The initial plans for this three-year cycle had originally included Akiyama as the conductor. His unexpected passing leaves the upcoming performances not only as tributes but also as messages left for future generations, reminiscent of a farewell.

Anticipation for Hikotarou Yazaki

Yazaki, with his profound background and international presence, brings fresh European influence to the Tokyo Academy Chorus. His arrival instills hope and excitement as the chorus embarks on this new journey, honoring the traditions Akiyama established while introducing new elements through his experienced interpretation. The concert promises to be a memorable occasion as the ensemble strives to emerge from their shared grief and embrace a vibrant future in music.

A Brief Background on Hikotarou Yazaki

Yazaki began his studies in mathematics at Sophia University before pursuing conducting at the Tokyo University of the Arts. His career blossomed after working under Seiji Ozawa as a conducting researcher with the Japan Philharmonic. After winning awards in international competitions like the Besançon International Conducting Competition, he moved to Europe in 1979, establishing a successful conducting career that includes performances with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and many others. He has also been a prominent guest conductor for various orchestras worldwide and actively contributes to cultural exchange through music.

Featured Artists

The concert will feature soprano Saki Nakai and baritone Taka Aoyama as soloists, each having an impressive resume and receiving numerous accolades in their respective fields. The orchestral accompaniment will be provided by the Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra, an ensemble with a rich history since its establishment in 1975. They have gained recognition for their innovative performances and dedication to both classical and contemporary music.

Conductor Masato Nagata

The concert’s choral directions will be led by Masato Nagata, who has guided the Tokyo Academy Chorus for many years. An alumnus of Tokyo University of the Arts, he also studied under renowned figures such as Seiji Ozawa and Kazuyoshi Akiyama, reflecting the continuity of excellence within the chorus’s directing leadership.

Concert Details

• - Event: 70th Regular Concert of Tokyo Academy Chorus
• - Date: November 1, 2025
• - Time: 16:00 (Doors open at 15:15)
• - Venue: Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, Shinjuku, Tokyo
• - Conductor: Hikotarou Yazaki
• - Soloists: Saki Nakai (soprano), Taka Aoyama (baritone)
• - Orchestra: Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra
• - Choral Director: Masato Nagata

Ticket Information

Tickets are currently available through Confetti, with prices set at:

• - S券: 6,000 yen
• - A券: 5,000 yen
• - B券: 4,000 yen
• - C券: 3,000 yen

(All seats reserved, tax included)
Ticket Purchase Site: Confetti

The upcoming concert stands as not only a significant milestone for the Tokyo Academy Chorus but as a heartfelt tribute to the musical legacy of Kazuyoshi Akiyama. Attendees can look forward to an enchanting evening that bridges emotional depth, musical artistry, and community connection.