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)
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.