Japan-Germany Koto Friends Association International Sommerakademie 2026 Festival Concert 1

The “International Sommerakademie,” organized by the Japan-Germany Music Friends Association, is an eight-day intensive workshop where musicians studying conducting and vocal performance hone their skills alongside a professional orchestra. On August 20, 2026, a festival concert will be held at the Saitama Arts Theater Music Hall to conclude the workshop. This year’s central theme is Gustav Mahler. Beginning with Symphony No. 4, the “Lückert Lieder” and “The Miraculous Horn of the Child,” will be performed by the next generation of musicians gathered from 13 countries. Comparing the differences in tempo and interpretation that arise when different conductors lead the same pieces, as well as the subtle interplay with the orchestra, is a valuable experience unique to this workshop. We invite you to come to the venue and experience firsthand the dramatic moments when these young musicians continually explore their own musical perspectives and the sound of the orchestra transforms with a single wave of the baton. Even without specialized musical knowledge, this rich program will captivate you with its depth and charm.