Tadaaki Otaka

Tadaaki Otaka is a celebrated Japanese conductor known for his dynamic interpretations of Romantic and late-Romantic orchestral works. Born in 1947 in Kamakura, he studied at Tokyo’s Toho Gakuen School of Music before honing his craft in Europe. A champion of British and Germanic repertoire, Otaka has served as Principal Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (1987–1995) and Music Director of the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra, blending precision with emotional depth. His recent recordings—like Brahms’ symphonies, Elgar’s *Symphony No. 3* (completed by Anthony Payne), and Glazunov’s complete symphonies—showcase his knack for balancing grand orchestral textures with intimate storytelling.

Famously warm and collaborative, Otaka has been a bridge between Japanese and Western classical traditions. He was awarded an OBE in 1997 for strengthening UK-Japan cultural ties and later received an honorary knighthood in 2016. When he’s not conducting, you might spot him mentoring young musicians or performing alongside his pianist brother Tomoki. Whether leading a fiery Tchaikovsky symphony or unearthing lesser-known gems, Otaka’s passion for music feels as fresh as his 1980s debut.

Genres

Japanese Classical

Orchestra

Latest Release

エルガー：交響曲 第2番

Edward Elgar•

Tadaaki Otaka

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released January 25, 2023