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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New Ceremonial MarchDan Ikuma
Some of you might recognize it as the march performed during the parade at the wedding ceremony of Crown Prince Naruhito (now the Emperor) and Masako Owada (now the Empress) on June 9, 1993.
This march, “New Ceremonial March,” was composed by Ikuma Dan—renowned not only in the field of classical music but also for children’s songs and film scores—specifically for wind band for the parade at the aforementioned wedding ceremony.
Combining both grandeur and lightness, the piece perfectly embodies what the composer himself described as a contrast between “masculine brilliance and feminine elegance.” Dan had previously composed the “Ceremonial March” in 1959 for the wedding of then-Crown Prince Akihito and Michiko Shoda.
It’s fascinating to listen to and compare the two works, noting their differences within the context of their respective eras.
Ballet Music: Rhythm of LifeSugada Isotarō
Composer Isotaro Sugata created unique works that combine Western modern orchestration with Japanese traditional music and gagaku.
His musical range spans widely, from wind band pieces to art songs.
For those who haven’t listened much to Japanese classical music, a highly recommended work is the Ballet Music “The Rhythms of Life.” Its orchestral sound is striking, allowing you to experience the allure of Eastern and Western music simultaneously.
It’s a grand piece that evokes images of structures with an oriental atmosphere, such as castles and shrines.
Classical music by Japanese composers. Recommended classical music (31–40)
Parodic fourth movementFukai Shirō
How many people, upon hearing this piece for the first time, would realize it was composed in prewar Japan? Melodies with such a chic resonance existed in Japan before the war.
Fukai is even called the Japanese Ravel.
It seems that when he actively imitated the techniques of Western composers in his writing, the piece came together quite smoothly; this reveals Fukai’s flexibility in readily embracing a different culture, as well as his keen sense for expressing originality within it.
Symphonic Poem “Flower of the Mandala”Yamada Kōsaku
Kosaku Yamada is a pioneering figure in Western music in Japan.
While he is generally strongly associated with children’s songs such as “Akatombo” (Red Dragonfly), he also left behind fully fledged symphonies.
This piece was inspired by a poem written by Yamada’s close friend when he sensed his father’s impending death.
Cello ConcertoOdaka Naotada
Although it was composed for my brother-in-law, Mr.
Takashi Kurata, the complete premiere could not be realized due to the harsh conditions during the war.
The first full performance took place twenty years after Otaka’s death, given by the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra.
The cellist at that time was Ko Wakabayashi.
It is a conservative work in the classical three-movement structure, possessing a classical beauty.
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.