MClassics
R. Schumann: Piano Works
矢野雄太
Schumann: Lyrical and Beautiful World by Yuta Yano Schumann’s visionary melodies. A lyrical and beautiful world presented by the new talent, Yuta Yano. A pianist and conductor with high expectations as a new talent, Yuta Yano’s career includes graduating from the Tokyo University of the Arts Graduate School and completing studies at the Claudio Abbado Civic School of Music in Milan, Department of Conducting, as well as the Accademia Teatro alla Scala. He has already collaborated frequently with many singers and top soloists, and his musicianship is highly acclaimed. This album marks his first solo album. For his debut, Yano has chosen Schumann, a composer he has loved and performed for many years. As if spinning each and every note, Yano’s musicianship and meticulous dedication dwell within the beautiful harmonies, melodies, and tone colors. A delicate and warm world of Schumann. Please listen to this profound music, overflowing with song, by Yuta Yano.
R. Schumann: Piano Works
矢野雄太
Schumann: Lyrical and Beautiful World by Yuta Yano Schumann’s visionary melodies. A lyrical and beautiful world presented by the new talent, Yuta Yano. A pianist and conductor with high expectations as a new talent, Yuta Yano’s career includes graduating from the Tokyo University of the Arts Graduate School and completing studies at the Claudio Abbado Civic School of Music in Milan, Department of Conducting, as well as the Accademia Teatro alla Scala. He has already collaborated frequently with many singers and top soloists, and his musicianship is highly acclaimed. This album marks his first solo album. For his debut, Yano has chosen Schumann, a composer he has loved and performed for many years. As if spinning each and every note, Yano’s musicianship and meticulous dedication dwell within the beautiful harmonies, melodies, and tone colors. A delicate and warm world of Schumann. Please listen to this profound music, overflowing with song, by Yuta Yano.
Apex
シカゴ交響楽団ブラス・クインテット
The origin and the pinnacle. The world’s strongest brass ensemble, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet, makes its grand appearance!! The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the world’s finest orchestra. Within it, the brass section delivers a particularly exceptional and brilliant resonance. Comprised of five elite members from that section, this ensemble is the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet. Carrying on a long-standing tradition, this ensemble embodies the world-renowned "CSO Brass" sound. An overwhelmingly grand sound that makes it hard to believe there are only five players. Transcendent technique. A golden tone that captivates the audience. Performed by the leading virtuosos of our time, this is truly the world’s "pinnacle" ensemble. This disc is a session recording conducted at Kioi Hall, Tokyo, during their 2023 visit to Japan. This is a must-listen album not only for brass fans but for all music fans.
Apex
シカゴ交響楽団ブラス・クインテット
The origin and the pinnacle. The world’s strongest brass ensemble, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet, makes its grand appearance!! The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the world’s finest orchestra. Within it, the brass section delivers a particularly exceptional and brilliant resonance. Comprised of five elite members from that section, this ensemble is the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet. Carrying on a long-standing tradition, this ensemble embodies the world-renowned "CSO Brass" sound. An overwhelmingly grand sound that makes it hard to believe there are only five players. Transcendent technique. A golden tone that captivates the audience. Performed by the leading virtuosos of our time, this is truly the world’s "pinnacle" ensemble. This disc is a session recording conducted at Kioi Hall, Tokyo, during their 2023 visit to Japan. This is a must-listen album not only for brass fans but for all music fans.
Viejos aires
ディスパー・トリオ
A gateway to new music! An extraordinary ensemble of horn, tuba, and piano! The Dispar Trio was formed in 2015. It is a "unique trio" consisting of three members: Přemysl Vojta (horn), a winner of the ARD International Music Competition; Patricio Cosentino (tuba), a soloist active on the world stage; and Tomoko Sawano (piano), who is highly acclaimed by world-class virtuosos. This album primarily features works specially written for this ensemble by Argentine composers. Experience the breathtaking technique and musicality of these three performers! The atmospheric sounds of Argentina will unfold before your eyes.
Viejos aires
ディスパー・トリオ
A gateway to new music! An extraordinary ensemble of horn, tuba, and piano! The Dispar Trio was formed in 2015. It is a "unique trio" consisting of three members: Přemysl Vojta (horn), a winner of the ARD International Music Competition; Patricio Cosentino (tuba), a soloist active on the world stage; and Tomoko Sawano (piano), who is highly acclaimed by world-class virtuosos. This album primarily features works specially written for this ensemble by Argentine composers. Experience the breathtaking technique and musicality of these three performers! The atmospheric sounds of Argentina will unfold before your eyes.
John Wiliams, R. Strauss, J.S. Bach & Masahiro Yamauchi: Oboe Concertos (Live)
山本直人
Naoto Yamamoto, one of Japan's leading oboists, delivers a brilliant concerto album in collaboration with the Aichi Chamber Orchestra (ACO). Formerly the principal oboist of the Nagoya Philharmonic, Yamamoto demonstrates his beautiful tone, flawless technique, and profound musicality across this collection of masterpieces. Supported by the ACO and three distinguished conductors (Kazufumi Yamashita, Keitaro Harada, and Kenjiro Sakairi), the album features both classical works and a world premiere recording of a piece by Masahiro Yamauchi. This is a must-listen album that fully captures the captivating charm of the oboe.
John Wiliams, R. Strauss, J.S. Bach & Masahiro Yamauchi: Oboe Concertos (Live)
山本直人
Naoto Yamamoto, one of Japan's leading oboists, delivers a brilliant concerto album in collaboration with the Aichi Chamber Orchestra (ACO). Formerly the principal oboist of the Nagoya Philharmonic, Yamamoto demonstrates his beautiful tone, flawless technique, and profound musicality across this collection of masterpieces. Supported by the ACO and three distinguished conductors (Kazufumi Yamashita, Keitaro Harada, and Kenjiro Sakairi), the album features both classical works and a world premiere recording of a piece by Masahiro Yamauchi. This is a must-listen album that fully captures the captivating charm of the oboe.
Yasushi Akutagawa: Great Works
野平一郎
- Yasushi Akutagawa: A Memorial Album for His 100th Birthday - This is a memorial album dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of the celebrated Japanese composer, Yasushi Akutagawa. Born in 1925 as the third son of the great novelist Ryūnosuke Akutagawa, Yasushi Akutagawa became one of Japan's leading composers, leaving behind a profound legacy not only in music but also through his extensive cultural and social activities. This album features live recordings of Akutagawa's captivating orchestral works, including the must-hear Symphony No. 1 and the Concert ostinato featuring cellist Haruma Satō, the winner of the ARD International Music Competition in Munich. The performance is by the "Yasushi Akutagawa Memorial Orchestra Nipponica", an ensemble named to carry on Akutagawa's spirit and mission. Although Nipponica concluded its 23 years of performance activity with this concert, the preserved sound recordings, scores, and accomplishments of their work will serve as a legacy for the future. This album is truly a tribute to the achievements of both Yasushi Akutagawa and Orchestra Nipponica.
Yasushi Akutagawa: Great Works
野平一郎
- Yasushi Akutagawa: A Memorial Album for His 100th Birthday - This is a memorial album dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of the celebrated Japanese composer, Yasushi Akutagawa. Born in 1925 as the third son of the great novelist Ryūnosuke Akutagawa, Yasushi Akutagawa became one of Japan's leading composers, leaving behind a profound legacy not only in music but also through his extensive cultural and social activities. This album features live recordings of Akutagawa's captivating orchestral works, including the must-hear Symphony No. 1 and the Concert ostinato featuring cellist Haruma Satō, the winner of the ARD International Music Competition in Munich. The performance is by the "Yasushi Akutagawa Memorial Orchestra Nipponica", an ensemble named to carry on Akutagawa's spirit and mission. Although Nipponica concluded its 23 years of performance activity with this concert, the preserved sound recordings, scores, and accomplishments of their work will serve as a legacy for the future. This album is truly a tribute to the achievements of both Yasushi Akutagawa and Orchestra Nipponica.
Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43 & Andante festivo, JS 34b (Live)
山形交響楽団
Chiaki Murakawa's Final Symphony, Performed with Yamagata Symphony Orchestra with His Entire Being. Chiaki Murakawa, Founding Honorary Conductor of the Yamagata Symphony Orchestra, passed away on June 25, 2025, at the age of 93. This album is a live recording of a performance given on August 10, 2024, the year before his death. It is the last symphony Murakawa Chiaki ever conducted. Murakawa's passion and love for music, which led him to establish the first professional orchestra in the Tohoku region and nurture it into a beloved presence for the people of Yamagata Prefecture, are poured into this performance. In this music, he layered the climate of Sibelius's Finland with the nature of Yamagata, and for half a century, he continued to perform and perfect the music of Sibelius with the Yamagata Symphony Orchestra. This is truly a legacy for the future. The sound is powerful, full of depth from Murakawa and Yamagata Symphony Orchestra. This is a moving live recording.
Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43 & Andante festivo, JS 34b (Live)
山形交響楽団
Chiaki Murakawa's Final Symphony, Performed with Yamagata Symphony Orchestra with His Entire Being. Chiaki Murakawa, Founding Honorary Conductor of the Yamagata Symphony Orchestra, passed away on June 25, 2025, at the age of 93. This album is a live recording of a performance given on August 10, 2024, the year before his death. It is the last symphony Murakawa Chiaki ever conducted. Murakawa's passion and love for music, which led him to establish the first professional orchestra in the Tohoku region and nurture it into a beloved presence for the people of Yamagata Prefecture, are poured into this performance. In this music, he layered the climate of Sibelius's Finland with the nature of Yamagata, and for half a century, he continued to perform and perfect the music of Sibelius with the Yamagata Symphony Orchestra. This is truly a legacy for the future. The sound is powerful, full of depth from Murakawa and Yamagata Symphony Orchestra. This is a moving live recording.
Spiral Galaxy of Bach
大木麻理
A Magnificent Sound: J.S. Bach on the Muza Kawasaki Organ Presenting an exquisite J.S. Bach album by Mari Ohki, one of Japan’s leading organists, featuring the world-class sound of Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall. Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall is a venue celebrated and cherished by musicians worldwide for its beautiful acoustics. The Hall is home to a magnificent pipe organ that commands an overwhelming presence and produces a truly grand sound. Mari Ohki, who has served as the Hall Organist since 2018, performs J.S. Bach’s masterpieces on this celebrated instrument. Having a deep familiarity with this versatile organ—built by the Swiss company Kuhn—Ohki fully exploits its characteristic features. Listeners will experience everything from a powerful fortissimo sound that resonates through the body to delicate, celestial pianissimo passages. This recording is a testament to Ohki’s rich musicality. Also noteworthy is the sense of realism captured by the high-specification DSD 11.2MHz recording. Immerse yourself in the solemn, majestic organ sound of Muza Kawasaki.
Spiral Galaxy of Bach
大木麻理
A Magnificent Sound: J.S. Bach on the Muza Kawasaki Organ Presenting an exquisite J.S. Bach album by Mari Ohki, one of Japan’s leading organists, featuring the world-class sound of Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall. Muza Kawasaki Symphony Hall is a venue celebrated and cherished by musicians worldwide for its beautiful acoustics. The Hall is home to a magnificent pipe organ that commands an overwhelming presence and produces a truly grand sound. Mari Ohki, who has served as the Hall Organist since 2018, performs J.S. Bach’s masterpieces on this celebrated instrument. Having a deep familiarity with this versatile organ—built by the Swiss company Kuhn—Ohki fully exploits its characteristic features. Listeners will experience everything from a powerful fortissimo sound that resonates through the body to delicate, celestial pianissimo passages. This recording is a testament to Ohki’s rich musicality. Also noteworthy is the sense of realism captured by the high-specification DSD 11.2MHz recording. Immerse yourself in the solemn, majestic organ sound of Muza Kawasaki.
Voyage en France
リッカルド・テルツォ
- A French Voyage with Riccardo Terzo - This is the solo album by Riccardo Terzo, Principal Bassoonist of the highly respected Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and an artist garnering attention as one of the world's leading instrumentalists. Titled “Voyage en France,” the recording is a collection of celebrated French masterpieces written specifically for the bassoon. The program features the representative Saint-Saëns Sonata alongside works by Françaix and Dutilleux, all distinguished by beautiful melodies and rich tonal color. Terzo’s performance powerfully demonstrates the bassoon's full appeal: his rich, resonant lower register, delicately controlled and beautiful high notes, and overwhelming technique and expressiveness. He fully reveals the instrument's charm. Pianist Tomoko Sawano complements the performance expertly, adding musical color and wonderfully sensitive accompaniment. This recording by a master of the bassoon in a new era is highly recommended.
Voyage en France
リッカルド・テルツォ
- A French Voyage with Riccardo Terzo - This is the solo album by Riccardo Terzo, Principal Bassoonist of the highly respected Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and an artist garnering attention as one of the world's leading instrumentalists. Titled “Voyage en France,” the recording is a collection of celebrated French masterpieces written specifically for the bassoon. The program features the representative Saint-Saëns Sonata alongside works by Françaix and Dutilleux, all distinguished by beautiful melodies and rich tonal color. Terzo’s performance powerfully demonstrates the bassoon's full appeal: his rich, resonant lower register, delicately controlled and beautiful high notes, and overwhelming technique and expressiveness. He fully reveals the instrument's charm. Pianist Tomoko Sawano complements the performance expertly, adding musical color and wonderfully sensitive accompaniment. This recording by a master of the bassoon in a new era is highly recommended.
Schnittke Clowns
滝千春
Following the critical acclaim for her previous album, "Prokofiev Story," Japanese violinist Chiharu Taki releases her highly anticipated second album In this album, Taki takes on the persona of a clown to perform the works of Alfred Schnittke, a composer of mystery and diversity. A leading figure of the late 20th century, Schnittke migrated from the former Soviet Union to Germany and established the principle of "polystylism." The album fully captures the charm of Schnittke's music, including the Violin Sonata, which contains a unique mysticism and immense passion; the Rondo, which sounds like Mozart on first listen; the ironic "Silent Night"; and pieces from his film scores that are full of Schnittke's sensibility. Chiharu Taki's superb technique shines through, expressing the music with rich sensitivity and directness. Pianist Yoshito Numazawa responds with a vivid and passionate performance. Also a must-listen is the Suite from the film music "Clowns and Children," specially arranged for violin and piano for this album by F. Strobel and T. Némoto. Please take a listen to the talent of Chiharu Taki and the charm of Schnittke's music.
Schnittke Clowns
滝千春
Following the critical acclaim for her previous album, "Prokofiev Story," Japanese violinist Chiharu Taki releases her highly anticipated second album In this album, Taki takes on the persona of a clown to perform the works of Alfred Schnittke, a composer of mystery and diversity. A leading figure of the late 20th century, Schnittke migrated from the former Soviet Union to Germany and established the principle of "polystylism." The album fully captures the charm of Schnittke's music, including the Violin Sonata, which contains a unique mysticism and immense passion; the Rondo, which sounds like Mozart on first listen; the ironic "Silent Night"; and pieces from his film scores that are full of Schnittke's sensibility. Chiharu Taki's superb technique shines through, expressing the music with rich sensitivity and directness. Pianist Yoshito Numazawa responds with a vivid and passionate performance. Also a must-listen is the Suite from the film music "Clowns and Children," specially arranged for violin and piano for this album by F. Strobel and T. Némoto. Please take a listen to the talent of Chiharu Taki and the charm of Schnittke's music.
Schumann: Complete Symphonies, Genoveva Overture & Manfred Overture (Live)
愛知室内オーケストラ
A Triumphant Collaboration: Kazufumi Yamashita & Aichi Chamber Orchestra's Complete Schumann Symphonies This album marks a significant achievement: the complete Schumann Symphony cycle from Kazufumi Yamashita, Music Director of the Aichi Chamber Orchestra since their 20th anniversary in 2022. This partnership has consistently garnered high praise for its meticulous refinement of ensemble playing and tonal quality. The performances on this recording radiate the profound unity forged between the two as they've progressed together. Schumann's symphonies, a cornerstone of German-Austrian music, are a specialty for Kazufumi Yamashita, who assisted Karajan in his youth. Expect a grand, full sound and meticulously structured interpretations that build immense exhilaration. The Aichi Chamber Orchestra brings Schumann's works to life with their fresh, vibrant tone. This is a powerful culmination of their journey so far, showcasing the full passion and joy of Schumann's symphonies. It's a tour de force from a partnership poised for even greater heights.
Schumann: Complete Symphonies, Genoveva Overture & Manfred Overture (Live)
愛知室内オーケストラ
A Triumphant Collaboration: Kazufumi Yamashita & Aichi Chamber Orchestra's Complete Schumann Symphonies This album marks a significant achievement: the complete Schumann Symphony cycle from Kazufumi Yamashita, Music Director of the Aichi Chamber Orchestra since their 20th anniversary in 2022. This partnership has consistently garnered high praise for its meticulous refinement of ensemble playing and tonal quality. The performances on this recording radiate the profound unity forged between the two as they've progressed together. Schumann's symphonies, a cornerstone of German-Austrian music, are a specialty for Kazufumi Yamashita, who assisted Karajan in his youth. Expect a grand, full sound and meticulously structured interpretations that build immense exhilaration. The Aichi Chamber Orchestra brings Schumann's works to life with their fresh, vibrant tone. This is a powerful culmination of their journey so far, showcasing the full passion and joy of Schumann's symphonies. It's a tour de force from a partnership poised for even greater heights.
As the Deer Pants for the Water Brooks
Ueno Bass Clef
Ueno Bass Clef's highly anticipated debut album is here! This is the debut album from Ueno Bass Clef, an euphonium and tuba ensemble formed by four talented musicians: euphonium players Ayaka Sato and Yuki Yamazaki, and tuba players Nana Ishimaru and Yuya Tamura, all graduates of Tokyo University of the Arts. Each member has won top prizes in domestic and international competitions and is active as a soloist or orchestral musician. This debut recording features acclaimed pieces commissioned for their past concerts, including Eiji Suzuki's arrangement of "Rhapsody on Theme of Paganini Op. 43" (arranged by popular wind ensemble composer Eiji Suzuki) and original works written specifically for this unique instrumentation by brilliant young composers. This album reveals new charms and possibilities for euphonium and tuba ensembles. Expect high-quality ensemble playing, beautiful tones, and exquisite melodies. The rich harmonies and deep sound are truly unique to this ensemble.
As the Deer Pants for the Water Brooks
Ueno Bass Clef
Ueno Bass Clef's highly anticipated debut album is here! This is the debut album from Ueno Bass Clef, an euphonium and tuba ensemble formed by four talented musicians: euphonium players Ayaka Sato and Yuki Yamazaki, and tuba players Nana Ishimaru and Yuya Tamura, all graduates of Tokyo University of the Arts. Each member has won top prizes in domestic and international competitions and is active as a soloist or orchestral musician. This debut recording features acclaimed pieces commissioned for their past concerts, including Eiji Suzuki's arrangement of "Rhapsody on Theme of Paganini Op. 43" (arranged by popular wind ensemble composer Eiji Suzuki) and original works written specifically for this unique instrumentation by brilliant young composers. This album reveals new charms and possibilities for euphonium and tuba ensembles. Expect high-quality ensemble playing, beautiful tones, and exquisite melodies. The rich harmonies and deep sound are truly unique to this ensemble.
Originals for OrigAmi: Concert Series, Vol. 2
ユーフォニアム四重奏団 OrigAmi
This is the second album from "OrigAmi," an ensemble of four euphoniums. Their name, OrigAmi, is a uniquely Japanese combination of the words "Origin" and "Amitie" (friendship), reflecting the members' desire to become the origin of this rare euphonium quartet formation. All members are graduates of the Kunitachi College of Music and are actively performing as soloists and in ensembles in various fields. This album features exclusively original works written for this instrumentation. The rich tones of the euphonium layer upon each other, creating a beautiful ensemble sound. From virtuosic soloistic passages to warm harmonies, this album is full of the captivating charm of the euphonium's beautiful resonance.
Gifts for Trombonists
玉木優
"Gifts" marks the fourth solo album from Yu Tamaki, a trombonist who actively performs on the global stage. This album is a heartfelt collection of eight essential masterpieces from the trombone repertoire, pieces that Tamaki has passionately cultivated through years of performance. Showcasing Tamaki's exceptional technical prowess and profound musicality, this album delivers the rich and highly acclaimed sound that has earned him international recognition. For trombonists, this is truly a collection of "Gifts." The colorful piano accompaniment by Hitomi Takara also deserves special attention.
Originals for OrigAmi: Concert Series, Vol. 2
ユーフォニアム四重奏団 OrigAmi
This is the second album from "OrigAmi," an ensemble of four euphoniums. Their name, OrigAmi, is a uniquely Japanese combination of the words "Origin" and "Amitie" (friendship), reflecting the members' desire to become the origin of this rare euphonium quartet formation. All members are graduates of the Kunitachi College of Music and are actively performing as soloists and in ensembles in various fields. This album features exclusively original works written for this instrumentation. The rich tones of the euphonium layer upon each other, creating a beautiful ensemble sound. From virtuosic soloistic passages to warm harmonies, this album is full of the captivating charm of the euphonium's beautiful resonance.
Gifts for Trombonists
玉木優
"Gifts" marks the fourth solo album from Yu Tamaki, a trombonist who actively performs on the global stage. This album is a heartfelt collection of eight essential masterpieces from the trombone repertoire, pieces that Tamaki has passionately cultivated through years of performance. Showcasing Tamaki's exceptional technical prowess and profound musicality, this album delivers the rich and highly acclaimed sound that has earned him international recognition. For trombonists, this is truly a collection of "Gifts." The colorful piano accompaniment by Hitomi Takara also deserves special attention.