Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra & Mao Kamei: A Fusion of Tradition and New Spirit in Osaka
Asahi Television presents the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by the new Chief Conductor Sir Donald Runnicles, featuring pianist Mao Kamei. The concert will be held on June 20, 2026, at The Symphony Hall, showcasing masterpieces by Beethoven and Brahms.
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Asahi Television Co., Ltd., a group company of Asahi Broadcasting Group Holdings, will host the 'Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra & Mao Kamei' concert on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at The Symphony Hall.
The Dresden Philharmonic, a prestigious German orchestra with over 150 years of history, returns to Japan after seven years. Under the baton of Maestro Sir Donald Runnicles, who takes over as Chief Conductor from the 2025/2026 season, a new breeze will blow through the traditional 'Dresden Sound.'
The soloist will be pianist Mao Kamei, who has gained immense popularity for his overwhelming technique and versatile expressiveness. He will perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5, 'Emperor,' a grand dialogue between piano and orchestra. In the second half, the orchestra will perform Brahms' Symphony No. 4, his final symphony and a cornerstone of German music.
[Concert Details]
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 14:00 (Doors open at 13:00)
Venue: The Symphony Hall, Osaka
Tickets: A 19,000 yen, B 16,000 yen (On sale)
[Performers]
- Conductor: Sir Donald Runnicles
- Piano: Mao Kamei
- Orchestra: Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra
[Program]
- Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73 'Emperor'
- Brahms: Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98
[Biographies]
Sir Donald Runnicles (Chief Conductor): With a 45-year career, he has led world-class operas and orchestras. He starts his tenure as Chief Conductor of the Dresden Philharmonic in the 2025/2026 season and has held positions with the Deutsche Oper Berlin and Sydney Symphony Orchestra. He was knighted in 2020.
Mao Kamei (Piano): First prize winner of the 2022 Long-Thibaud International Competition and 5th prize at the 2025 Queen Elisabeth Competition. Known for his media appearances and virtuosic recordings, he is currently one of the most exciting pianists in the industry.
Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra: Established in 1870, it is a pillar of Dresden's cultural life. Past chief conductors include Kurt Masur and Karl Schuricht. It maintains a wide repertoire while preserving its unique 'Dresden Sound.'
The Dresden Philharmonic, a prestigious German orchestra with over 150 years of history, returns to Japan after seven years. Under the baton of Maestro Sir Donald Runnicles, who takes over as Chief Conductor from the 2025/2026 season, a new breeze will blow through the traditional 'Dresden Sound.'
The soloist will be pianist Mao Kamei, who has gained immense popularity for his overwhelming technique and versatile expressiveness. He will perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5, 'Emperor,' a grand dialogue between piano and orchestra. In the second half, the orchestra will perform Brahms' Symphony No. 4, his final symphony and a cornerstone of German music.
[Concert Details]
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 14:00 (Doors open at 13:00)
Venue: The Symphony Hall, Osaka
Tickets: A 19,000 yen, B 16,000 yen (On sale)
[Performers]
- Conductor: Sir Donald Runnicles
- Piano: Mao Kamei
- Orchestra: Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra
[Program]
- Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73 'Emperor'
- Brahms: Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98
[Biographies]
Sir Donald Runnicles (Chief Conductor): With a 45-year career, he has led world-class operas and orchestras. He starts his tenure as Chief Conductor of the Dresden Philharmonic in the 2025/2026 season and has held positions with the Deutsche Oper Berlin and Sydney Symphony Orchestra. He was knighted in 2020.
Mao Kamei (Piano): First prize winner of the 2022 Long-Thibaud International Competition and 5th prize at the 2025 Queen Elisabeth Competition. Known for his media appearances and virtuosic recordings, he is currently one of the most exciting pianists in the industry.
Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra: Established in 1870, it is a pillar of Dresden's cultural life. Past chief conductors include Kurt Masur and Karl Schuricht. It maintains a wide repertoire while preserving its unique 'Dresden Sound.'
FAQ
How to get to The Symphony Hall in Osaka?
It is about a 7-minute walk from Fukushima Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. It is renowned as Japan's first hall dedicated specifically to classical music.
What is the significance of the 'Dresden Sound'?
It refers to the unique, warm, and rich tonal quality preserved by the Dresden Philharmonic over its 150-year history, especially in Romantic repertoire.
Who is Mao Kamei?
Mao Kamei is a prominent young Japanese pianist who won first prize at the Long-Thibaud International Competition in 2022 and is known for his virtuosic technique.