Avex Classics International Launch Avex Recital Series 2019

Following the continued successes of the Avex Recital Series, Avex prepare to launch their dynamic 2019 programme at Wigmore Hall with a special concert by Nobuaki Fukukawa - winner of the 77th Music Competition of Japan Horn Division in 2008. While proudly welcoming back renowned shamisen player Honjoh Hidejiro, the 2019 season will also present the Series' first singer Sara Kobayashi as it returns in its fourth year even bigger and better than before.

The first concert in this diverse series will take place on Saturday 5th January. Nobuaki Fukukawa, who joined the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra as the principal horn player at the age of twenty, will transport audiences to another world with pieces by globally-acclaimed Dai Fujikura, British composer York Bowen and additional contemporary composers.

Bringing incredible musicians from around the world to perform at London's renowned concert hall, the second concert in the Avex Recital Series 2019 presents acclaimed soprano Sara Kobayashi. Having captivated Japanese audiences with her exuberant stage presence and broad stylistic range, Kobayashi's concert on Saturday 2nd March will include Mai by Kunihiko Hashimoto.

As the traditional Japanese instrument becomes increasingly popular, the 2019 Avex Recital Series will also see the return of shamisen solo performer Honjoh Hidejiro. With his utterly unique blend of visceral musicality and virtuosic technique, Hidejiro was the first shamisen performer to receive the prestigious Idemitsu Music Award. After blowing audiences away during his spectacular debut earlier this year, he will perform the world premiere of Ryuichi Sakamoto's new composition.

Hiroyuki Nakashima, President at Avex Classics International, comments, Avex Classics International is committed to nurturing the best young musical talent and giving them an international platform. From intimate recitals to huge multimedia presentations, we engage audiences of all ages and nationalities in the unique power that defines the best musical performances and artists. After three successful seasons, we are launching our most ambitious line-up of programming and are excited to work with three of the most sought-after artists in Japan as forerunners in their respective field.