1. Overview
Hirofumi Kanno (菅野博文Kanno HirofumiJapanese, born in Tokyo, Japan in 1947) is a distinguished classical cellist and an influential music educator. Renowned for his exceptional talent and unique performing style, Kanno has established himself as one of Japan's leading cellists. His extensive career spans both international performance and academic roles, including studies with legendary cellists Pierre Fournier and Janos Starker, significant achievements in major international competitions, and professorships at universities in the United States and Japan. He is also a Professor Emeritus at Showa Academia Musicae.
2. Early Life and Education
Hirofumi Kanno was born in Tokyo in 1947. His musical journey began at the young age of seven when he started cello lessons with the esteemed Japanese musician and educator Hideo Saito. Kanno continued his studies under Saito's tutelage through the Toho Gakuen Children's Music Class, the associated high school, and ultimately graduated from the Toho Gakuen University in 1970. His formative years with Saito laid a strong foundation for his future international career.
3. International Studies and Competitions
After completing his initial education in Japan, Hirofumi Kanno embarked on advanced musical studies abroad, refining his artistry under the guidance of renowned cellists. During this period, he also achieved significant recognition in prestigious international music competitions, solidifying his reputation as a formidable talent.
3.1. Studies Abroad
Following his graduation in 1970, Kanno traveled to Switzerland to study intensively with the celebrated cellist Pierre Fournier. Two years later, in 1972, he moved to the United States to continue his advanced studies with Janos Starker at Indiana University. Kanno's dedication and skill were recognized by Starker, leading to his appointment as Starker's assistant in 1975, a position that further deepened his understanding of cello performance and pedagogy.
3.2. Major Competitions
Kanno's competitive successes began early in his career. In 1969, he won first prize in the cello division of the 38th Japan Music Competition (then known as the NHK Mainichi Competition), and also secured first prize in the associated overseas dispatch competition, which supported his international studies. His international recognition soared in 1974 when he was awarded third prize at the 5th International Tchaikovsky Competition in the cello division. During this competition, he also received a special award for his outstanding performance of a required piece by a Soviet composer.
4. Professional Career
Hirofumi Kanno's professional career is marked by a dual commitment to both performance and music education. He has held significant academic positions and maintained an extensive performing schedule, contributing broadly to the musical landscape in both the United States and Japan.
4.1. Academic and Teaching Positions
In 1976, Kanno began his academic career in the United States, first serving as an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky's Lexington campus. He later became an associate professor at Temple University in Philadelphia. After establishing a strong presence in American academia, he returned to Japan, where he became a distinguished faculty member at Showa Academia Musicae (Showa College of Music). He is now recognized as a Professor Emeritus at Showa Academia Musicae, reflecting his lasting impact on the institution and its students.
4.2. Performance Activities
Kanno held his debut recital in Japan in 1975. While in the United States, he actively performed as a member of several prominent chamber ensembles, including the Chestnut Hills Resident Trio, the Faculty Trio, and the Temple Trio. Since 1981, Kanno has been based in Japan, where he is widely regarded as one of the nation's foremost cellists. His influence extends beyond his own performances; as a dedicated instructor and cellist, he has mentored and produced a multitude of musicians. He has also been affiliated with leading Japanese ensembles, serving as a member of the Kioi Sinfonietta Tokyo and the Kioi Hall Chamber Orchestra.
4.3. Instruments and Collaborations
A notable aspect of Hirofumi Kanno's performing career is his use of the historic Joseph Guarnerius cello, a famous instrument produced in 1689, which is owned by Showa Academia Musicae. This instrument has accompanied him in many of his performances. In recent years, Kanno has frequently collaborated with other prominent musicians, notably the violinist Gérard Poulet and the pianist Gen Tomuro. These collaborations have contributed to a rich body of chamber music performances.
5. Personal Life
Public records briefly mention some of Hirofumi Kanno's personal interests. He is known to have an affinity for cats and also expresses a liking for the fast-food chain McDonald's.
6. Discography
Hirofumi Kanno's discography includes recordings of significant classical works, demonstrating his interpretive depth and technical prowess.
| Album Title | Composers and Featured Works | Collaborators |
|---|---|---|
| Saburo Takada: Instrumental Works | Saburo Takada's instrumental compositions | Eri Takada, Yoko Matsuda, Saburo Takada |
| Akira Miyoshi: Works for Guitar | Akira Miyoshi's compositions for guitar | Mikio Yoshidoh, Yayoi Toda, Hiroaki Matsuno, Masumi Tenmura |
7. Legacy and Assessment
Hirofumi Kanno is widely acknowledged for his lasting impact as a distinguished cellist and an influential educator within the classical music community. His unique performing style has been particularly noted for its distinctive quality. According to observations, his individualistic approach to performance stood out among his peers, as referenced by comments regarding the 1974 International Tchaikovsky Competition winner, Danyil Shafran. Beyond his acclaimed performances, Kanno's contributions as an instructor have been significant, as he has nurtured and guided numerous aspiring musicians, solidifying his legacy in music education.