Topics
Lamenting the passing of Professor KIMURA Toshimitsu
Topics
2026.4.27
Prof. KIMURA Toshimitsu, who made tremendous contributions to the Mt. Fuji International Opera Competition of Shizuoka - serving as a jury member for the 1st through 6th competitions and as jury chairperson for the 7th through 9th competitions—passed away on April 17, 2026.
As the first Asian opera singer to secure a permanent contract at the Rheinische Oper in Germany, Prof. KIMURA performed in numerous operas and concerts both in Japan and abroad, leaving a significant legacy in the Japanese vocal music world. He also devoted himself passionately to mentoring the next generation, teaching for many years at Toho Gakuen School of Music and serving as an instructor at the Opera Training Institute of New National Theatre, Tokyo, where he nurtured many outstanding singers.
In this competition, he supported us as a judge from its inception, and from the 7th to the 9th editions, he shouldered the heavy responsibility of serving as the chair of the judging panel. He also made tremendous contributions as Honorary Advisor in preparation for this 10th edition. His approach to judging, grounded in his deep professional expertise and warm personality, provided significant guidance and encouragement to many contestants and greatly contributed to the preservation of this competition’s philosophy and quality.
Thanks to his efforts, the competition has continued to develop as Japan’s only international opera competition to this day.
We hereby express our deepest gratitude for his kindness during his lifetime and, in remembrance of his contributions to the development of this competition, offer our sincere condolences.
SUZUKI Yasutomo
Chairperson,
Executive Committee of the Mt. Fuji International Opera Competition of Shizuoka
Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture
Chairperson,
Executive Committee of the Mt. Fuji International Opera Competition of Shizuoka
Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture
