Modétro Saxophone Ensemble
©️Keiju Takenaka
Modétro Saxophone Quartet
Modétro Saxophone Quartet, founded in 2021, is a dynamic ensemble that breathes new life into the world of chamber music. The name "Modétro" is a clever fusion of "modern" and "rétro," reflecting the ensemble's mission to explore musical styles ranging from baroque to contemporary while showcasing the unique charm of the saxophone.
Comprised of four talented saxophonists, Modétro Saxophone Quartet captivates audiences with its exceptional communication skills, transporting listeners through time and space with its performances. Whether engaging in outreach programs aimed at children or delivering captivating concerts, the quartet's diverse repertoire and spirited storytelling never fail to leave a lasting impression.
Their outreach efforts have garnered national attention, with highlights of their performances being broadcasted on TBS's information program.
In 2021, the ensemble released their debut album "Realize" under the NAT label, further solidifying their presence in the music scene.
Recognized for their commitment to community engagement, Modétro Saxophone Quartet was selected as a dispatched artist for the Nagano Session of the Region Creation/Public Hall Music Activation Outreach Forum Project in 2019. They are also registered artists for the Reiwa 5/6 Public Hall Music Revitalization Project.
Modétro Saxophone Quartet continues to captivate audiences with their innovative approach to chamber music, bridging the gap between classical traditions and contemporary expressions.
◇ Soprano Saxophone
Kyohei IIZUKA
©️Keiju Takenaka
Background:
Kyouhei Iizuka, hailing from Kanagawa Prefecture, is a talented soprano saxophonist with a passion for music that shines through his performances. His journey in music began with a solid academic foundation, having graduated from Chuo University Faculty of Science and Engineering before furthering his studies at Shobi Music College, specializing in soprano saxophone performance.
Accomplishments:
Kyouhei Iizuka has achieved notable success in the realm of classical music, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication. He secured the 3rd place in the General category at the esteemed 27th Japan Classical Music Competition and was honored with the Special Excellence Award at the 4th K Saxophone Concours. His prowess as a performer was evident in his appearances at prestigious events such as the 21st Woodwind Division of the Yamaha Wind Instrument Newcomer Concert and the 2018 Kawagoe City Talent Discovery Audition.
Performance Career:
A versatile musician, Kyouhei Iizuka has garnered acclaim for his solo recitals held in 2020 and 2022, captivating audiences with his expressive soprano saxophone playing. Beyond solo performances, he actively contributes to orchestral and ensemble settings, lending his talent to various projects and concerts as both a soloist and an ensemble member.
Musical Training:
Under the tutelage of esteemed saxophonists including Masahiro Owada, the late Hiromi Hara, Masahiro Tamura, and Yuto Miyake, Kyouhei Iizuka has honed his skills and cultivated a distinctive musical voice on the soprano saxophone. His training has equipped him with the technical proficiency and artistic sensibility necessary to excel in the competitive world of classical music.
Ensemble Memberships:
As a dedicated member of the musical community, Kyouhei Iizuka actively participates in several esteemed ensembles, including Vario Saxophone Quartetto, Lumière Saxophone Ensemble, Wind Works, and Tokyo Saxophone Orchestra. Through collaboration with fellow musicians, he continues to explore new musical horizons and deliver captivating performances to audiences worldwide.
◇Alto Saxophone
Go Nishida / Go NISHIDA
©️ Itaru Hirama
Background:
Nishida Go, born in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, is a gifted alto saxophonist known for his dynamic performances and versatile musical style. His journey in music began at Nagano Prefecture Komoro High School Music Department, where his passion for saxophone playing first flourished. He furthered his musical education at Kunitachi College of Music, honing his skills and deepening his understanding of the instrument.
Accomplishments:
Nishida Go has garnered recognition for his exceptional talent and dedication to music. His performances at prestigious events such as the university graduation concert, Nagano Prefecture newcomer concert, Saxophone Association newcomer concert, and Yamaha wind instrument newcomer concert have earned him acclaim within the musical community. He also achieved success in the "Orchestra Series," a project sponsored by the Japan Federation of Musicians, where he showcased his skills as a soloist with the Nagoya Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of conductor Kentaro Kawase.
Performance Career:
As a soloist, Nishida Go has captivated audiences with his expressive alto saxophone playing, showcasing his technical prowess and musical sensitivity. He has had the privilege of guest performances with esteemed orchestras such as the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Gunma Symphony Orchestra, and the Tokyo Wind Orchestra. Additionally, he is actively involved in music education, serving as a lecturer at brass band clinics sponsored by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra and dedicating himself to teaching young musicians across the country.
Notable Engagements:
In 2018, Nishida Go made waves with his appearances in "ONE PIECE ONEN" at the Tokyo International Forum C Hall, where he impressed audiences with his musical prowess in 28 performances. He has also been featured in television programs such as "FNS Uta no Natsu Matsuri" and "Mezamashi Classics." In 2021, he performed a solo concert in Kumamoto as a special event commemorating the original 1000th episode of the manga "One Piece," showcasing his versatility across different musical genres.
Musical Training:
Under the guidance of esteemed saxophonists including Kazuyuki Hayashida, Yasushi Arai, Gentaro Koyama, and Masato Kumoi, as well as chamber music mentor Keiji Shimoji, Nishida Go has developed a refined technique and a nuanced musicality on the alto saxophone.
Ensemble Memberships:
Nishida Go is an active member of Norical and the Tokyo Saxophone Orchestra, where he collaborates with fellow musicians to create captivating musical experiences for audiences.
◇ Tenor Saxophone
Nao Morita
©️Keiju Takenaka
Background:
Morita Nao, hailing from Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, is a distinguished tenor saxophonist recognized for his exceptional musical talent and dedication to contemporary music. His musical journey commenced at Sayamagaoka High School and continued at Kunitachi College of Music, where he pursued his passion for saxophone performance. Morita furthered his musical education by completing the master's course at Kunitachi College of Music Graduate School of Music, refining his skills and deepening his understanding of the instrument.
Accomplishments:
Morita Nao has achieved significant recognition for his outstanding performances in prestigious music competitions. He secured the highest (2nd) prize at the esteemed 10th Yokohama International Music Competition and garnered the 2nd prize along with the Chairman's Award at the renowned 20th Great Wall Cup International Music Competition. Additionally, he showcased his talent by winning the 2nd prize in the ensemble section of the Nagoya Saxophone Competition, further solidifying his position as a formidable saxophonist.
Performance Career:
Morita Nao is actively involved in performance activities related to contemporary music, where he has premiered new compositions and participated in recordings of orchestral and brass band works. He is known for his versatility and artistry, captivating audiences with his expressive interpretations and technical proficiency on the tenor saxophone. Morita has also showcased his talents as a member of a saxophone quartet, enriching the chamber music repertoire with his contributions.
Musical Training:
Under the tutelage of esteemed saxophonists including Masato Kumoi, Kazuyuki Hayashida, and Kuninobu Bando, Morita Nao has honed his skills and developed a refined musical sensibility on the tenor saxophone. His dedication to mastering the instrument and exploring new musical horizons has been instrumental in shaping his distinctive artistic voice.
Ensemble Memberships:
Morita Nao is an active member of prominent ensembles such as Gendai Sozo TOKYO, Tokyo Saxophone Orchestra, and Saxophone Boys of Saxophone Quintet. His collaborative efforts with fellow musicians have contributed to the vibrant saxophone community and enriched the musical landscape with innovative performances.
Teaching Career:
Morita Nao serves as a Saxophone Major Lecturer at Star Musical Instruments Co., Ltd., where he shares his expertise and passion for the saxophone with aspiring musicians, inspiring the next generation of performers.
◇Baritone Saxophone
Ryo Kato
©️Keiju Takenaka
Background:
Kato Ryo, originally from Moka City, Tochigi Prefecture, is a highly accomplished musician known for his mastery of the baritone saxophone. His musical journey began at Showa University of Music, where he cultivated his passion for saxophone performance and chamber music. Throughout his career, Kato has garnered numerous awards and accolades for his exceptional talent and dedication to music.
Accomplishments:
Kato Ryo has achieved remarkable success in various music competitions, demonstrating his outstanding skill and artistry on the baritone saxophone. His accolades include the 2nd place in the 32nd Tochigi Prefecture Student Music Competition, the Gold Prize and Grand Prix at the 10th Tochigi Prefecture Brass Band Solo Contest, and the Grand Prize at the JBA Kanto Koshinetsu Branch 8th Junior High School and High School Wind and Percussion Solo Contest, among others. His commitment to musical excellence has earned him recognition and acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.
Performance Career:
As a versatile performer, Kato Ryo has captivated audiences across the country with his soulful performances at various music festivals, prestigious concert halls, and radio broadcasts. He has collaborated with renowned musicians and ensembles, including saxophone quartet "SAXIDEA" under the leadership of Kenichiro Muto, further showcasing his versatility and musical prowess.
Recording Career:
In 2019, Kato released his debut album "reborn" on the NAT label, receiving critical acclaim and earning a spot as a recommended board for the esteemed music magazine "Ongaku Gendai." His expressive interpretations and technical mastery have established him as a rising star in the contemporary music scene.
Musical Training:
Kato Ryo received extensive training from esteemed saxophonists such as Kenichi Miyamoto, Kazune Shimada, and Kenichiro Muto, honing his skills and refining his musical expression on the baritone saxophone. He also received guidance in chamber music from distinguished mentors such as Sumichika Arimura, Shogo Eimura, and Takamasa Matsubara, further enriching his musical education.
Teaching and Leadership Roles:
As a leader of the Tokyo Saxophone Orchestra and a lecturer at the Yamano Gakki Saxophone Course, Kato Ryo is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion for music with aspiring musicians. His commitment to music education and leadership underscores his role as a mentor and advocate for musical excellence.
Masterclasses and Continued Education:
Kato Ryo has continued to refine his craft through participation in masterclasses conducted by renowned saxophonists such as Keiji Sosada, Alexandre Souillart, and Fabrice Moretti. His pursuit of musical excellence and continuous learning reflects his unwavering dedication to his artistry.
| Official website | |
|---|---|
| Official Twitter | https://twitter.com/ModetroEnsemble |
photo credit
©️Keiju Takenaka