Yuma Kumaki & Kazuki Yamada - SONGS of Toru Takemitsu (2026) Hi-Res

Arriving in 2026—marking the 30th anniversary of Toru Takemitsu’s passing—this album presents a fresh perspective on his vocal works.
Renowned globally as a contemporary classical composer, Takemitsu also spent his life creating songs infused with the flavors of chanson, jazz, and popular *kayōkyoku* music. Set to lyrics by leading Japanese poets such as Shuntaro Tanikawa, Ichiro Araki, and Kuniharu Akiyama, these pieces have transcended genres to remain beloved and frequently performed today. Yet, until now, no classical soprano had recorded a full album dedicated to this repertoire. This release represents the first time an artist has tackled this uncharted territory head-on.

The vocalist is Yuma Kumaki, a soprano of the new generation.
Possessing the brilliant voice and technique of a coloratura soprano, she also commands a captivating natural voice and an intuitive sense for the essence of diverse musical genres—truly a singer for a new era. Conductor Keitaro Harada was astounded by her talent during an opera audition and introduced her to Kazuki Yamada, who was equally captivated by her voice. Currently honing her craft in Milan, she is expanding her career, appearing as a soloist in subscription concerts with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra. Supporting her debut album is Kazuki Yamada himself, providing a piano accompaniment rich in nuance. Although a world-class conductor, this marks the first time in his career that he has served as the accompanist for an entire album of sixteen songs.

The album features sixteen tracks, including "Chiisana Sora" (Small Sky), "Tsubasa" (Wings), and "Shinda Otoko no Nokoshita Mono wa" (What the Dead Man Left Behind). Approaching Takemitsu’s songs—which blend the lyricism of chanson, the harmonies of jazz, and classical structural integrity—through classical vocal technique and interpretation, the artists reveal the music's multifaceted character. In this intimate setting of voice and piano alone, every nuance—from the breath within the words and the shading of the melodies to the very silences—emerges with vivid clarity. This album features the voice of Yuma Kumaki, conveying a warmth that gently accompanies everyday life and a timeless resonance that transcends eras.