Nobuya Sugawa is a classical saxophonist whom Japan proudly presents to the world. For many years, he has commissioned works from leading contemporary composers, continually expanding the classical saxophone repertoire.
He has collaborated with numerous renowned orchestras both in Japan and internationally, performing and conducting masterclasses in over 30 countries. A graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts, he was awarded first prize at the 51st Music Competition of Japan and the inaugural Japan Wind and Percussion Competition.
His latest CD, Bach Sequence—his first unaccompanied recording—received the Excellence Award at the 71st (2022) Agency for Cultural Affairs Arts Festival. He served as concertmaster of the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra (1989–2010) and principal conductor of the Yamaha Symphonic Band (2007–2020).
Sugawa is a member of the Trouvère Quartet, a visiting professor at Tokyo University of the Arts, and a guest professor at Kyoto City University of Arts.
