zoom_in Click to enlarge

Masaaki Suzuki

▲ ▼

description Masaaki Suzuki Overview

Masaaki Suzuki is a Japanese conductor, organist, harpsichordist, and specialist in early music. He founded Bach Collegium Japan in 1990 and has directed the ensemble in performances and recordings of works by Johann Sebastian Bach and other Baroque composers. His work is particularly associated with historically informed performance, which uses period instruments and research into the musical practices of the eras in which the works were composed.

help Masaaki Suzuki FAQ

What ensemble did Masaaki Suzuki found?

Masaaki Suzuki founded the Bach Collegium Japan in 1990 to perform and record Baroque music. He has directed the ensemble in numerous acclaimed performances and recordings. The group is particularly celebrated around the world for its interpretations of Johann Sebastian Bach's works.

What genre of music is Masaaki Suzuki known for?

Suzuki is widely recognized as a specialist in early music, particularly the works of Johann Sebastian Bach and other Baroque composers. His approach is heavily influenced by historically informed performance practices using period instruments. His recordings of Bach's complete sacred cantatas are considered gold standards in the classical world.

What instruments does Masaaki Suzuki play?

In addition to being an esteemed conductor, Suzuki is an accomplished organist and harpsichordist. He frequently performs on these instruments, both as a soloist and alongside his ensemble. His keyboard expertise provides the foundation for his brilliant interpretations of Baroque continuo parts.

Where is Masaaki Suzuki from?

Masaaki Suzuki is a Japanese conductor and musician who has gained immense international acclaim. Through his work with the Bach Collegium Japan, he effectively put the country on the map for early music performance. His global reputation rivals that of many traditional European early music maestros.