MAV Symphony Orchestra, National Concert Hall, 9 July

For several years, he was the music director of the Hungarian State Concert Orchestra but visits less frequently now. He is one of the world’s most in demand conductors. His career was launched when he won first prize at the 1974 Hungarian Television Conducting Competition. In the first round, the participating orchestra was the MAV Symphony Orchestra and this was the first orchestra he ever worked with outside his native Japan.

This led to a lifelong friendship with the ensemble and he often asks them to join him when he is touring Europe with Japanese choruses.

In Japan, those involved in the choral movement are not professional musicians but very spirited, diligent and disciplined ensembles who approach European music and particularly the Symphony No. 9 with euphoric happiness.

This explains the Tokyo based guest choir’s name: “The society of those singing the Ninth Symphony in the hot summer”. The choir was created by this evening’s soprano soloist, the graphic artist Ikeda Ryoko in 2003 and Kobayashi has since worked with them.

Beethoven: Symphony No. 9
Conductor: Ken-Ichiro Kobayashi

Featuring: Ikeda Riyoko, Suzuki Gako, József Mukk, Asai Takahito – vocal soloists, Manastuni Daikuwo Utaukai Choir

Ticketprices: 1500.- 2500.- 3000.- 4000.- HUF

Source: Palace of Arts