The renowned Japanese classical violinist Daishin Kashimoto has solidified his reputation as one of the most accomplished musicians of his generation. Starting violin lessons at the age of three, he became the youngest student ever accepted into the pre-college division of the Juilliard School.
Daishin Kashimoto
Winner of the Yehudi Menuhin International and Long-Thibaud Competitions, Kashimoto has held the prestigious position of first concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic since 2009. Beyond his orchestral duties, he is a celebrated soloist and chamber musician known for his versatility and mastery of a wide repertoire ranging from classical staples to contemporary works.
On the occasion of his birthday on 27 March 1979, let us sample some of his most iconic recordings and performances.
Daishin Kashimoto Performs Saint Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3, “Molto moderato e maestoso”
Beethoven Complete Violin Sonatas
Released by Warner Classics in 2014, Kashimoto’s recording of Beethoven’s complete violin sonatas with pianist Konstantin Lifschitz stands as a monumental achievement in his discography. According to reviewers, Kashimoto’s approach to this ambitious 4-CD set reveals a profound understanding of the composer’s evolving style.
Kashimoto’s rendition of the “Kreutzer” is considered one of the standout performances. It is often singled out for its electrifying energy and emotional range. Kashimoto’s virtuosity is allowed to shine without sacrificing clarity, while there is quiet intensity in the slow introduction and movement. Critics have noted that his interpretation avoids over-sentimentality, instead emphasising the structural integrity and raw power that make the “Kreutzer” a landmark in chamber music.
Ludwig van Beethoven: Violin Sonata No. 9 in A Major, Op. 47, “Kreutzer” (Daishin Kashimoto, violin; Konstantin Lifschitz, piano)
Chausson Concerto Op. 21
Kashimoto’s recording of Chausson Concerto for Piano, Violin, and String Quartet was released in 2024 by Sony Classical. It is a striking addition to his discography and a testament to his prowess in chamber music. BR Klassik designated the recording “Album of the Week,” and it has received glowing reviews for its emotional depth and technical finesse.
Kashimoto discloses his deep affinity for French music and excels as both a soloist and collaborator. Critics from Diapason and The Strad commended the ensemble’s unity and Kashimoto’s ability to convey the work’s emotional arc. This recording underscores his versatility and places him among the leading interpreters of Chausson’s underappreciated masterpiece; it is a compelling showcase of Kashimoto’s artistry at its peak.
Ernest Chausson: Concerto for Violin, Piano and String Quartet in D Major, Op. 21 (Daishin Kashimoto, violin; Eric Le Sage, piano; Schumann Quartett)
Rota Trio
Kashimoto’s recording of Nino Rota’s chamber music earned him a prestigious “Diapason d’Or” award and showcases his ability to breathe life into lesser-known repertoire with vibrancy and finesse. The recording demonstrates his versatility in uncovering hidden gems, bringing the composer’s elegant and playful style to the forefront of classical music appreciation.
Critics have lauded his Rota recordings for their freshness and charm, and in the “Trio,” Kashimoto navigates the work’s lively dialogues and tender interludes with ease. He skillfully balances the violin’s prominence with the flute and piano to create a cohesive and sparkling ensemble sound. Reviews praised his ability to infuse Rota’s music with a sense of narrative and his distinct clarity of phrasing accentuating Rota’s instrumentation.
Nino Rota: Trio for Flute, Violin and Piano (Emmanuel Pahud, flute; Daishin Kashimoto, violin; Eric Le Sage, piano)
Lalo Symphonie Espagnole
Daishin Kashimoto
For a good number of critics, Kashimoto’s performance of Lalo’s Symphonie Espagnole is a captivating display of his virtuosity and interpretive finesse. Recorded with the NHK Symphony Orchestra under conductor Susanna Mälkki in a widely admired performance, Kashimoto infuses this masterpiece with a blend of technical brilliance and expressive warmth.
He presents a remarkable fusion of technical brilliance, emotional depth, and stylistic versatility. To be sure, his 1722 “Jupiter” Stradivarius responds beautifully to his impeccable precision, and his seamless blend of power and sensitivity reflects a deep musical intelligence. In his Lalo performance Kashimoto creates an interpretation that is as intellectually engaging as it is viscerally thrilling.
Daishin Kashimoto’s journey from a prodigious talent to a masterful concertmaster and soloist encapsulates a rare blend of innate gift, relentless dedication, and artistic evolution. He not only leads one of the world’s premier orchestras with poise and authority but also distinguishes himself as a soloist and chamber musician. His mastery lies in his ability to transcend cultural and musical boundaries, and inspiring audiences and musicians alike, his influence endures well beyond his already illustrious tenure.
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