【press release】
The birth of the "Kunion Fortepiano" - Research and educational applications for the new century
As part of the university's 100th anniversary celebrations, Kunitachi College of Music Collection for Organology (Tachikawa, Tokyo) has produced a replica of a fortepiano made by the 18th-century master Anton Walter. The instrument was crafted by keyboard instrument maker and lecturer at the university, Itaru Otagaki, using some of the wood from the campus's symbolic tree, which was cut down during the construction of the new school building, which was completed in 2011.
Based on the vision of the "Kunion New Century" concept for the commemorative project, the instrument will be used in a wide range of events, including concerts, summer schools, and special exhibitions. Visitors and students in the exhibition room will also have the opportunity to try out the instrument.
The significance of replica instruments
Kunitachi College of Music Collection for Organology owns a large collection of 19th-century fortepianos, which have been used in classes on the history of keyboard instruments and for performance research. However, for studying the early works of Mozart and Beethoven, fortepianos from the late 18th century are essential. However, original instruments are few in number and, due to their age, their use in performances must be restricted. Therefore, replica instruments are of great significance in that they can be used in educational and research settings, and can also convey their appeal to a wider audience.
Completion commemorative event
Kunion Fortepiano Debut Concert
Date: April 18, 2025 (Friday) 18:30 start
Venue: Kunitachi College of Music Concert Hall Recital Hall
Fee: Free (application required)
The theme of the lecture is "Applying the experience of playing on the fortepiano to modern piano performance," and pianist Yuko Hisamoto will explain how to broaden the scope of performance interpretation and gain a deeper understanding of the composer's intentions through the unique tone and playing techniques of the fortepiano. Furthermore, through an ensemble with violinist Takashi Nagamine and soprano Takeko Nagashima, you can experience the sound of 18th-century music.
Apply here: https://teket.jp/11944/44986
*Please note that the number of seats is limited.
Special Recital
Tomasz Ritter Kunion Fortepiano Recital
Date: June 27, 2025 (Friday) 18:30 start
Venue: Kunitachi College of Music Concert Hall Recital Hall
Fee: Free (application required)
This recital features Polish pianist Tomasz Ritter. Ritter is a highly accomplished performer who won first place at both the first International Chopin Competition for Period Instruments and the world-renowned Bruges International Competition for Early Music. This performance will feature works by Mozart, Beethoven, and others, performed on a Kunion fortepiano. Through Ritter's exceptional performance, you will be able to experience the charm of musical expression from that time.
Apply here: https://teket.jp/11944/45435
Lecture Concert
Exploring Classical Piano Works with the Fortepiano
Date and time: December 11, 2025 (Thursday) 18:30 start
Venue: Kunitachi College of Music Concert Hall Recital Hall
Fee: Free (application required)
Fortepiano player Chie Hirai will perform a series of classical pianos and composers, with commentary provided. In addition to Walter pianos, she will also be using a Broadwood (circa 1820) and a Graf (1830s) from the Collection for Organology collection. Piano maker Itaru Otagaki will also give a talk about piano making.
Application procedures and other information will be posted on Collection for Organology website from time to time.
https://www.gs.kunitachi.ac.jp/
Other Appointments
・Special Exhibition "The Achievements of Piano Makers - The Piano and Music Desired by Classical Composers"
Period: Exhibition room open days between Wednesday, April 16th and Wednesday, July 30th, 2025
Please check the exhibition room opening dates here: https://www.gs.kunitachi.ac.jp/ja/guide/calendar/
Venue: Kunitachi College of Music Collection for Organology Exhibition Room
Price: Free
・Kunion Fortepiano Summer School
Period: August 25th (Mon) to August 29th (Fri), 2025
Location: Kunitachi College of Music Collection for Organology Exhibition Room, etc.
This is a fortepiano summer school and graduation concert for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as students from the affiliated junior and senior high schools. auditor are welcome (a lottery will be held if the number of participants exceeds the limit).
The latest information will be posted on Collection for Organology website as it becomes available.
https://www.gs.kunitachi.ac.jp/
Contact Information
[Event Inquiries]
Kunitachi College of Music Collection for Organology
TEL: 042-535-9574
[Contact for interview inquiries]
Kunitachi College of Music Office of Public Relations
TEL: 042-535-9500