Riccardo Muti's project to pass on the essence of Italian opera to the next generation, the Italian Opera Academy in Tokyo, will hold its fifth iteration from September 2 (Tue) to September 15 (Mon/holiday). This year's program will be Verdi's opera "Simon Boccanegra". Muti, who gave an outstanding performance of “Attila,” which was selected by many media as the best performance of last year, and the all-Italian program of this year's Spring Festival in Tokyo, will conduct “Simon Boccanegra” in Japan for the first time in 11 years. He will perform Verdi's masterpiece with the Tokyo-Harusai Orchestra and the Tokyo Opera Singers, whom he trusts deeply, as well as a solid lineup of singers.

However, the charm of the Italian Opera Academy is not limited to performances conducted by Muti. During the two-week Academy, the maestro thoroughly trains young conductors selected by audition. He shares with them not only the technical techniques of conducting operas, but also how to work with singers and orchestras, advice from his own teachers and stories of experience all with a strict attitude and a great deal of humor. The daily rehearsals are open to the audience, and for those who aspire to a career in music, everything is golden. On September 11 (Thur), a performance will be given by young conductors who have been studying hard. The performance will feature Japanese singers who have improved their skills under Muti's guidance. Muti himself will explain the charms of his works in a “Concert-Lesson” (September 2/Tue), which has become a popular program.

Tickets for the Italian Opera Academy in Tokyo vol. 5 go on sale on June 29 (Sun) at 10:00. Information on the schedule during the Academy period and information on applying to attend the rehearsals will be announced shortly. We hope you will enjoy this valuable time with the Maestro again this fall.

Please see the Italian Opera Acdemy in Tokyo vol.5 Special Website for more details.