The special performance of "Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert" by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, presented by Rakuten, is held every December.This year, the young maestro Daichi Deguchi, who resides in Berlin, was invited to the grand stage of the orchestra with the longest history in Japan.In order to deliver the joy and pleasure of classical music to more people.Words spoken with an eye on the future have a certain "passion" that is somewhat similar to sports.

The music classes that many people took when they were young.You must have heard the name of the German composer, Beethoven, at least once.It’s about Ludwig van Beethoven, depicted in that portrait with wavy silver hair and a red scarf.The pieces he composed, such as “Für Elise” and “Fate (Symphony No. 5)”, are surely hummable by anyone, even those unfamiliar with classical music.The “Symphony No.9” to be performed this time, commonly known as the “Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert” is a famous piece that is just as popular as the others.The last movement, which is particularly famous for the melody of the “Ode to Joy”, is renowned as an innovative piece in which vocal music, in other words, choral music performed by human voices, was introduced for the first time in a symphony.

This year-end, Daichi Deguchi is the one welcomed by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra to conduct the said “Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert”.This is a new standard-bearer for classical music, who has made “breaking the boundaries of music genres” the theme of their life.

“In December, orchestras all over Japan perform “Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert”.In a manner of speaking, it is a place where the abilities of each orchestra are compared.For such an important program, the Tokyo Philharmonic has chosen me, a newcomer.”I can’t wait to see what kind of performance it will be.”

Although Mr. Deguchi shared his feelings with us, it seems that his initial state of mind regarding the invitation this time was “something unbelievable has happened”.This is because, among the performers in the Tokyo Philharmonic who have served in hundreds of productions to date, this is the first time Mr. Deguchi is conducting “Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert” in front of a professional orchestra.A tremendous pressure weighs on my shoulders.However, on the other hand, the positive feeling of being able to approach the innovative work “Bethoven Symphony No.9 Concert” more freshly than anyone else pushes Mr. Deguchi’s back.

“The charm of conducting is that you can make many people smile depending on how hard you try.”It is my role as a conductor to strive to make everyone, both the orchestra and the audience, smile with a good performance.”

In order to deliver a good performance, Mr. Deguchi is constantly honing his skills.What I learned from the conversation is that the practice of a conductor differs from that of a musician, with most of it being more akin to studying.Like reading a dictionary thick with pages, I read the sheet music over and over, absorbing the music within me.In parallel with that, it is necessary to pay attention to the background of the song.The composer’s intent, the global situation at the time the piece was written, and where the composer was influenced, are all studied from various sources. A concept is then created based on this research, and the direction is conveyed to the performers.Mr. Deguchi spoke about the invisible process of effort, comparing it to his favorite sport, Baseball.

“Since a conductor stands alone on the conductor’s podium, psychologically, they are similar to a pitcher on the mound who is always expected to deliver results.That being said, unlike performers who play music, it is also a position similar to a manager who builds a team through analysis and planning.

Mr. Deguchi, who finds the charm in the constant tension of something happening and the momentary battles in baseball, seems to feel a connection between sports and music.The world that Mr. Deguchi aims for is true entertainment that moves many people’s emotions.

“For me, classical music is a very attractive entity, but I feel it is just one genre of music.”There was a time when I used to play in a rock band, and I also listen to jazz frequently.Even when it comes to club music, it’s a very familiar presence for me as I usually live in Berlin.Music itself has transcended barriers and become a part of my activities and life.”Therefore, I want everyone to approach classical music casually, without feeling formal or intimidated.”

It would be nice to have an open space where you can enjoy like an outdoor festival, lying down on the grass with your family, partner, or friends, and having a drink.Mr. Deguchi spoke with a laugh, as if completely unaffected by the strictness typically associated with classical music.Classical music is a unique genre that strongly conveys the societal background, such as political and religious views of the era when the piece was composed.The changes in emotions that arise from touching an unknown world, and new realizations are present in classical music.

“Today’s era is seen as one where diversity is expanding and gradually merging at the same time.I believe that it is in the process of forming individual identities eventually.In that sense, there is a possibility that a new form of interest could emerge through the connection between sports and classical music, both forms of entertainment. This could lead to a situation where fans from both domains interact with each other.”In the vast world of entertainment, I would like to consider an approach where the branched elements show a kind of chemical reaction.”

The tension and depth are one of the charms of classical music.However, through the conversation with Mr. Deguchi, who possesses flexible thinking, I would be pleased if you could feel close to the idea that “you may not have to be so defensive.”December tends to be a hectic and restless month.It wouldn’t be a bad idea to reset by listening to classical music, instead of welcoming the end of the year with such feelings.I hope you enjoy a wonderful adult time that has a special feeling.

TEXT : Keisuke Honda PHOTO: Ryo Kuzuma EDIT: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)