Classical music by Japanese composers. Recommended classical music.
When we hear the term “classical music,” many of us immediately think of works by well-known foreign composers.
These pieces are often used in various everyday contexts with different arrangements, and there are many works that people have naturally heard at least once and can name right away.
However, if you’re asked to name classical works by Japanese composers, fewer people may be able to answer quickly.
Here, we focus on classical music composed by Japanese composers and highlight representative works.
This is recommended even for those who regularly enjoy classical music but haven’t listened much to works by Japanese composers.
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Classical music by Japanese composers. Recommended classical music (31–40)
On the night of GethsemaneMatsumura Teizō
Teizo Matsumura was a composer who created numerous film scores and choral works.
Influenced by traditional Asian music, he received the Medal with Purple Ribbon in 1990.
His late orchestral piece “In the Night of Gethsemane” was inspired by reproductions of paintings depicting Jesus Christ.
Its dynamic sound, which conveys profound sorrow, leaves a strong impression.
The thrilling yet bold orchestral performance evokes both the vigor and the fragility of life.
It is a masterpiece in which the timbres of wind instruments—beginning with the flute and clarinet—unfold dramatically.
Symphony No. 1Abe Kōmei
A thrilling masterpiece brimming with speed and excitement.
While Western-style harmony is skillfully employed, you can also sense a distinctly Japanese sensibility in places.
In the third movement, following the clarinet’s first theme, the horn boldly presents the second theme, and the impact here is considerable.
It’s something you won’t forget after a single listen.
Ohmutakara, Opus 20Yamada Kazuo
Composer Kazuo Yamada, known for his contributions to Japan’s classical music scene, conducted orchestras from before the war and performed on numerous stages both at home and abroad.
Among his works, “Ohomutakara, Op.
20” evokes an especially grand narrative.
Its orchestral sound resonates in harmony with Japan’s beautiful natural landscapes.
The piece masterfully expresses stillness and motion, resulting in a dramatic work.
It is Japanese classical music that conveys a bright, resolute will.
If you enjoy period dramas or historical series, this is a must-listen.
Symphony No. 1Hashimoto Kunihiko
Composed in 1940, the Symphony No.
1—also referred to as Symphony No.
1 in D major—was written by Kunihiko Hashimoto as a celebratory work for the 2600th year of the Imperial Era.
Considered to have strong elements of propaganda, it is a symphony that remained suppressed for a long time after the war.
It has been described as a work that incorporates elements mindful of Kigensetsu within an approachable orchestral atmosphere, and it is sometimes performed using ancient instruments such as the Japanese taiko.
It is a symphony that can also prompt reflection on the circumstances of the time in which it was composed.
Symphony No. 5 “Simplex”Ikebe Shinichirō
In the opening of the first movement, the main theme appears abruptly and unfolds in an ostinato-like manner.
The second movement shifts dramatically in mood and becomes melodic, but in the third movement a persistent ostinato returns.
Despite being titled “Simplex,” the piece develops with full-on complexity—classic Ikebe world on full display.
BanquetMayuzumi Toshirō
Toshiro Mayuzumi was a composer who supported Japan’s film music scene in the postwar era, and a musician with a broad range that spanned contemporary and classical music.
Among Mayuzumi’s works, one that unfolds with particular drama is Banquet.
It’s a striking piece featuring a thrilling saxophone performance atop an orchestral sound.
You can fully experience its humorous sonority infused with Latin and jazz elements.
It’s a Japanese classical masterpiece packed with dynamic yet delicate appeal.
If you’re looking for classical music that conveys strength, be sure to give it a listen.
Piano ConcertoMiyoshi Akira
It’s a piece with a breathless sense of speed and dynamism that also evokes a jazz-like atmosphere.
A wide variety of percussion instruments are used, giving it a rich palette of timbres.
The piano is treated quite percussively as well.
The powerful brass fanfare near the end is also highly memorable.
Symphony No. 1Betsugu Sadao
Mr.
Sadao Bekku studied under Milhaud and Messiaen.
When it comes to symphonies by Japanese composers, it’s no exaggeration to say Bekku is the name to know.
From the first movement to the finale, the entire work is packed with highlights.
In particular, the richness of color in the second movement and the cohesiveness of the third are truly striking.
Requiem for Mixed ChorusChihara Hideki
Hideki Chihara has written many works centered on Japanese identity and the universality of prayers from East and West.
This piece also adopts texts from ancient Japanese songs, interwoven with Latin Requiem verses.
It is a highly melodic work that cherishes the Japanese spirit of song.
Fantasia Sakura SakuraHirai Kōsaburō
Let me introduce a solo piano piece that revives traditional Japanese music for the modern era.
Based on a long-loved melody, this work has been reborn as a fantasia for solo piano by Japanese composer Kozaburo Hirai.
It opens with a gentle introduction, then in the middle section adds drum-like rhythms that evoke the bustle of a festival.
Finally, it draws to a quiet close.
It’s as if scenes of spring in Japan are painted through sound.
Highly recommended for those interested in traditional Japanese music or looking to enjoy classical music from Japan.
Do give it a listen.