ゲスト　市川和彦さん(新日本フィルハーモニー交響楽団 副首席トランペット奏者) 木山インタビュー

Overview

Mizuho Kiyama hosts an interview/performance segment featuring Kazuhiko Ichikawa, Associate Principal Trumpet (speaking about both trumpet and related instruments) of the New Japan Philharmonic. The group performs live from FM’s studio.

Opening Highlight: “Sweet Memories” and the “Trumpet” Sound

The episode begins by introducing the concert highlight, “Sweet Memories” (Seiko Matsuda). Ichikawa explains that the sound the audience is hearing is not a straight trumpet, but a flugelhorn—a softer brass instrument with a tone that blends more gently, with a character closer to a “human voice,” rather than blasting.

Flipping the Trumpet Stereotype

A central theme is overturning the common idea that the trumpet is always the star.

• Ichikawa jokes that many people assume trumpet players are loud or self-centered.
• He argues that his approach is different: he prioritizes music, listening, and maintaining his own condition, rather than trying to dominate.
• He describes trumpet playing as an “unsung hero” role—sometimes the trumpet’s job is not to carry the melody, but to support the ensemble’s atmosphere by blending, highlighting texture, and contributing to the overall balance.

Instrument History and Inspiration

The conversation expands into instrument history and influences.

Ancient Egyptian “Trumpet” Anecdote

Ichikawa shares an intriguing story about an ancient Egyptian “trumpet” reportedly found from Tutankhamun’s tomb. He notes it was used as an announcement signal in hunts and battles—supporting the idea that brass instruments historically served ceremonial and communicative purposes, not just entertainment.

Study Abroad in Vienna

He also recounts studying abroad in Vienna, describing the city as overflowing with music. He explains how the European classical environment—venues, teachers, and institutions—helped shape his musical path.

Philharmonic News and Upcoming Performances

The segment shifts to promotional and event updates.

Crowdfunding: Philippines 2026

The Philharmonic’s crowdfunding effort supports performing in the Philippines in 2026, with special attention to the practical travel and production costs.

Mahler Symphony No. 3

The episode also covers upcoming performances of Mahler Symphony No. 3, including details about soloists and the conductor. Ichikawa emphasizes what makes Mahler special in this context:

• its large scale and long duration
• its orchestral richness
• strong use of human voices (choir/sopranos)

Trumpet-Related Feature: Posthorn Solo

He highlights a particularly trumpet-relevant element: a “posthorn” solo.

• Ichikawa explains the posthorn as an instrument historically used by postmen to announce mail.
• He plays with the idea that the audience may feel as if the sound is coming from far away.
• For brass/trumpet listeners, he describes the moment as rare and exciting.

Personal Encouragement and Advice

In the later part of the video, Ichikawa becomes more personal and encouraging:

• He praises the New Japan Philharmonic’s culture: members respect each other, grow together, and don’t compromise musically.
• Advice to young aspiring trumpet players:
  • The hardest part is getting a sound out at first.
  • Don’t give up early.
• He recommends listening widely across genres—jazz, pop, and classical—and connects trumpet playing to expanding one’s future possibilities.

Closing Piece: Shostakovich and the Mitake Prize

The host tees up the Mitake Prize-winning piece, Shostakovich Public Station No. 8, explaining it includes trumpet solos and is technically demanding.

Ichikawa discusses its musical contrasts:

• intense sections
• terrifyingly quiet moments
• a fast “mountain” section

He also notes the ensemble challenge: staying focused as an ensemble player while the solo lands at precisely the right moment.

Notable Jokes, Reactions, and Highlights

• Quick correction/explanation: the “trumpet” sound is actually a flugelhorn—softer and more voice-like.
• Humor about the stereotype that trumpet players are “loud” or “self-centered,” contrasted with Ichikawa’s calm ensemble-first mindset.
• The Egyptian trumpet story frames brass as announcement/ceremony signaling, not just stage performance.
• Trumpet-fan appeal: the posthorn explanation (mail/postman instrument) and the effect of hearing sound “from far away.”

People Featured

• Mizuho Kiyama (interviewer/host)
• Kazuhiko Ichikawa (New Japan Philharmonic Associate Principal Trumpet, guest)