Classic Music Conference 2026: Paving the Future of Classical Music

In recent years, the classical music industry has faced a significant turning point. With rapid technological advancements, diversification of audiences, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape surrounding musicians, orchestras, educational institutions, and listeners has changed dramatically. The industry now grapples with challenges like reaching younger audiences, diversifying revenue structures, and harnessing new technologies, including streaming and artificial intelligence. As traditional methods fail to keep pace with the evolving needs of society, there's an urgent need to enhance the value of this art form. In this context, the Classic Music Conference 2026 has been designed as a platform to address these critical challenges and to guide the entire industry towards the next stage of development.

Theme of the Conference: Where to Go After Music School?

At the helm of discussions will be prominent figures such as economist Yusuke Narita, former TBS television announcer Mika Horii, and former TV Tokyo director Hiroki Takahashi. These experts will delve into the concerns and problems facing graduates of music schools. While students have the option to pursue diverse careers—becoming teachers, working in corporate jobs, or freelancing—many express feeling uninformed about the realities and job-hunting process related to these paths. The road to becoming a professional musician capable of earning a sufficient income solely from performance is notably challenging.

A critical gap emerges as graduates often struggle with the reality of finding a stable income while striving to maintain their artistic integrity. The ability to self-brand effectively and communicate one's unique musical identity is essential for success in the music industry today. To tackle these challenges, universities are urged to provide robust career support, while students are encouraged to proactively seek information and act upon it.

Panel Discussions

The conference will feature discussions that address two primary areas:
1. The lack of information regarding pathways and careers for music graduates.
2. The necessity of self-branding for success in the competitive landscape of classical music.

Through the insights shared by ten panelists, attendees will gain valuable perspectives and actionable strategies that can aid in navigating the challenges of their careers.

Event Details

- Date & Time: March 28, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
- Location: Rikkyo University Ikebukuro Campus, Room 9000 (Capacity: 500)
- Participation Fee: ¥6,000
- Application Period: January 15, 2026, to March 20, 2026 (First come, first served)

Contact Information for the Classic Music Conference

For inquiries regarding the Classic Music Conference, please reach out to the Japan Music Association.

- Address: 1-1-3 Kugenuma Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
- Website: classicmusic.tokyo
- Email: [email protected]

This conference not only seeks to bridge the gap between traditional music education and contemporary challenges but also aims to empower the next generation of musicians as they embark on their diverse career paths.