Suntory Hall Celebrates 40th Anniversary with New Composition 'CELEBRATION for Suntory Hall' by Shin-ichiro Ikebe

The Pipe Organ at Suntory Hall

Suntory Hall (Minato-ku, Tokyo) celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2026. In celebration, a new piece titled 'CELEBRATION for Suntory Hall,' composed by the renowned Japanese composer Shin-ichiro Ikebe, has been added to the repertoire of the pipe organ located at the hall's main entrance. The piece will be performed before each concert throughout the season, starting in June 2026.

Under the concept of 'the world's most beautiful sound,' Suntory Hall has connected countless artists and music lovers for 40 years, offering a rich musical experience. This period represents a history of countless 'encounters' between guests and music.

The sound of the pipe organ at the front entrance has long heightened the excitement of concertgoers. Before each performance and every day at noon, the sliding doors above the entrance open to reveal 37 pipes, accompanied by mechanical puppets of an old man and a boy—the 'keepers of the vineyard'—who turn handles in a charming display while the organ plays. Handcrafted by the prestigious Austrian organ builder Rieger, the pipe organ uses the same materials as the grand organ in the main hall, reflecting Suntory Hall’s dedication to musical excellence.

To commemorate the 40th anniversary, a new work has been commissioned from Shin-ichiro Ikebe, a composer who has walked with Suntory Hall since its opening and deeply understands its history and spirit. 'CELEBRATION for Suntory Hall' will welcome guests before each concert throughout this anniversary season.

Composition Details and Composer's Comment

Title: CELEBRATION for Suntory Hall Composer: Shin-ichiro Ikebe Performer: Masayo Katsuyama

<Composer's Comment> 'I am truly happy and delighted that Suntory Hall has reached its 40th anniversary. I can still clearly visualize and hear the scene of the opening. The late Keizo Saji, then president of Suntory, cleverly initiated the opening by playing the 'A' note on the organ, followed by a piece by Yasushi Akutagawa. Forty years later, I am proud that this place is now one of the most loved and cherished venues not only in Japan but in the world, and I am even happier thinking about its future.

It is a great honor to be involved with this prestigious place. Through this piece, I hope that Suntory Hall will continue to be cherished by all the music and hall lovers who gather here before each performance.' — Shin-ichiro Ikebe

About Shin-ichiro Ikebe Composer. Graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts and its graduate school. Currently serving as Professor Emeritus at Tokyo College of Music, Music Director at Tokyo Opera City, and board member of the Suntory Foundation for the Arts. A leading figure in Japanese music, recipient of the Medal with Purple Ribbon (2004), Person of Cultural Merit (2018), and Japan Art Academy Prize (2026).