We have to inform you a sad news of Mr. Akira Nishimura, the Music Director of Kusatsu International Summer Music Academy & Festival, passed away due to a jaw cancer on September 7th, 2023 (aged 69).

Since he was appointed to the music director in 2010, every summer he had been spending time in Kusatsu for two weeks to not only encourage artists, but also put his effort into nurturing young artists. He established the Nishimura Music Director’s Award to encourage promising masterclass’ students, many of those who received the award has became active professional artists.

All concerned to our festival is not able to accept his sudden departure.
We would like to express our deepest condolences and may he rest in peace.

From his lecture at the 41st (2021) festival 

From the curtain call of the Concerto for Oboe “Shijin – The four Symbols” (composed by Akira Nishimura) at the 39th (2018) festival