The NHK Symphony Orchestra boasts the largest complement of musicians (113), the most subscription concerts (60), the healthiest annual budget (3 billion yen), the highest visibility (over NHK radio and television) and the most interesting programs of any of the 30 professional symphony orchestras in Japan. Its awesome artistic investment is carefully protected under an exceptionally great music director and a cadre of eminent regular conductors. It also nurtures relationships with prestigious guest conductors, and cautiously explores promising newcomers.
The relationship between an orchestra and a conductor is a dynamic symbiosis, a partnership not unlike a marriage. It thrives best when the parties complement each other's temperament, technique, training and tradition. All orchestras are not the same; certainly all conductors are not the same. The search for gifted conductors who fit the character of an orchestra is endless.
NHK Kokyo Gakudan Aug. 4, Sakari Oramo conducting in Suntory Hall -- "Pohjola's Daughter" Symphonic Fantasia, Op. 49 (Jean Sibelius, 1865-1957), Concerto for Violoncello and Orchestra in B Minor, Op. 104 (Antonin Leopold Dvorak, 1841-1904) featuring Yoko Hasegawa; Symphony No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 82 (Sibelius)