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Hiroshi WakasugiJapanese conductor
Date of Birth: 31.05.1935
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Conductor in Tokyo
- International Success
- - Cologne Radio Symphony (1977-1983), where he was Chief Conductor
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Hiroshi Wakasugi was born in New York City to a Japanese consul general. After returning to Japan, he studied music at the Tokyo University of the Arts.
Conductor in Tokyo
Upon graduating, Wakasugi joined the NHK Symphony Orchestra. In 1965, he became the conductor of the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra, which he transformed into one of Japan's leading orchestras. His 1968 premiere of Krzysztof Penderecki's "St. Luke Passion" earned him the National Arts Festival Prize from the Agency for Cultural Affairs.
International Success
In 1969, Wakasugi founded the Tokyo Chamber Opera Theatre, serving as its artistic director until his death. He also conducted major orchestras worldwide:
- Cologne Radio Symphony (1977-1983), where he was Chief Conductor
- Oper am Rhein (1981-1986), where he was General Music Director- Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich (1987-1991)
- Semperoper Dresden and Staatskapelle Dresden (1982-1991)
Return to Japan
In 2005, Wakasugi became artistic advisor to the New National Theatre Tokyo's opera division, becoming its artistic director in 2007. At the time of his death, he was artistic director of three theaters: the Tokyo Chamber Opera Theatre, the New National Theatre, and the Biwako Opera Theatre.
Legacy
Hiroshi Wakasugi passed away on July 21, 2009, at the age of 74. He was a renowned conductor who played a significant role in promoting Japanese opera and music on the international stage.
