On January 9 and 10, 2026, Euan Shields conducted two performances with the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra at Sumida Triphony Hall in Tokyo, joined by pianist Kyohei Sorita. The program included Weber’s Overture to Oberon, Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27 with Sorita as soloist, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4.
These concerts followed Euan’s Japan conducting debut with the Osaka Symphony Orchestra in November 2025 and marked his first appearances with the New Japan Philharmonic. In Mozart’s final piano concerto, Euan and Sorita worked closely to shape a transparent orchestral framework, allowing for clear dialogue between soloist and orchestra, particularly in the quieter passages of the work. Across the program, the focus was on balance, pacing, and shared musical direction.
A professional review of the January 9 performance was published by Classic Navi (Mainichi Shimbun Group), which noted Shields’ ability to draw beautiful sounds from the New Japan Philharmonic and the boldness of his programming in bringing together Weber, Mozart, and late Brahms in a single concert. Another reviewer observed that “Shields’ conducting clearly shaped the music’s direction and phrasing, allowing the works to unfold with clarity and purpose. His leadership reveals his talent fully, and we look forward to his next appearance.”
Both performances were well attended, and at the close of each concert Euan addressed the audience in Japanese to express his thanks. These Tokyo engagements continued his developing artistic relationship with Japanese orchestras, soloists, and audiences, building on the momentum of his recent work in Japan.
