Takeshi Moriuchi

The Conducting Masterclass of the Japanisch-Deutscher Musikfreunde was founded by Naoki Sugiyama, who studied with two of the most important German conductors of the late twentieth century — Herbert Kegel and Kurt Redel — and invited Maestro Redel to Japan to launch this programme.

With a history of nearly thirty years, the course offers all participants — from beginners to advanced conductors — a rare opportunity to conduct real ensembles and orchestras and receive tailored guidance suited to their individual level and needs.

My own regular attendance at this masterclass, and the many invaluable insights I received from both Redel and Sugiyama, along with the experience of conducting in front of an orchestra during the sessions, remain — even today, after nearly 200 performances in European opera houses — an essential foundation of my conducting.

Sometimes a simple thought such as "perhaps I'll give it a try" can become a major turning point in one's career. Nothing begins if you do not take the first step. I would encourage anyone connected with conducting — whether in choral, wind band, or orchestral settings — to take advantage of this practical opportunity to revisit the fundamentals and broaden one's network of colleagues.