Obituary: Toshio Akiyama (1929 - 2025)

Joint Statement from the Japanese Band Directors Association (JBA) and the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE)

The Japanese Band Directors Association (JBA) and the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) mourn the passing of the esteemed “Father of Japanese Wind Music,” Maestro Toshio Akiyama, who passed away on 9 December.

In his youth, Maestro Akiyama travelled alone to the United States, where he diligently sought out wind music professionals and devoted himself to building enduring bridges between Japanese and American wind music communities. His vision of international exchange would become a defining hallmark of his life’s work.

In 1967, he founded the Japanese Band Directors Association (JBA), fostering sustained artistic exchange and development among youth and adult bands in Japan and across the world. His leadership laid the groundwork for a global outlook on wind music that continues to shape the field today.

Maestro Akiyama was also a valued collaborator and cherished friend of WASBE. He believed deeply in international dialogue, shared learning, and mutual respect among wind music practitioners worldwide. WASBE honours his lifelong commitment to global collaboration and joins JBA in mourning the loss of a visionary leader whose influence transcended national boundaries.

A prolific author, Maestro Akiyama wrote extensively on wind music, particularly its history, helping generations of musicians better understand its evolution. Through his writings, many were introduced to American wind ensemble traditions, pedagogical approaches, and repertoire, further strengthening cross-cultural exchange.

He was widely regarded as a great father—one who respected his seniors, guided his juniors, and nurtured wind music communities around the world. Above all, he was a devoted family man who loved his wife and children dearly. Surrounded by beautiful flowers, he bid farewell gently, with words of gratitude: “Thank you. Thank you.”

The Japanese Band Directors Association and the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles extend their deepest condolences to Maestro Akiyama’s family, friends, colleagues, and the global wind music community. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Mariko Yamamoto, PresidentJapanese Band Directors Association (JBA)

Miguel Etchegonceley, PresidentWorld Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE)