Toyohiko Satoh

**Toyohiko Satoh** is a Japanese lutenist and composer celebrated for his mastery of Baroque and Renaissance lute music. Born in Tokyo in 1943, he initially studied Western classical guitar before diving into the world of historical plucked instruments. After training at the Amsterdam Conservatory, Satoh became a central figure in the early music revival, blending meticulous technique with a deep understanding of European lute traditions. His recordings, like *La Rhétorique des Dieux* and *Bach & Weiss*, showcase his crisp, expressive playing and knack for breathing life into centuries-old compositions.

Beyond interpreting classics, Satoh also composes original works that bridge Eastern and Western influences, as heard in albums like *Yugen* and *Iki*. His style weaves Japanese aesthetics into Baroque forms, creating meditative, hauntingly beautiful pieces. A dedicated educator, he’s shaped generations of lute players through teaching and collaborations. Whether reviving forgotten gems by Reusner or crafting modern lute miniatures, Satoh’s artistry feels both timeless and refreshingly inventive.

Genres

Medieval

Latest Release

La Rhétorique des Dieux

Toyohiko Satoh

Album - 19 Tracks - Released May 12, 2023