City of Kyoto Symphony Orchestra (CKSO) is the only orchestra in Japan that is managed by a public authority. Kyoto City founded CKSO in 1956 as a new cultural asset for Kyoto. Aiming to be a friendly orchestra that the citizens can love and be proud of, as well as to be a symbol of Kyoto, the city of culture and art, CKSO is continuously engaged in a variety of activities, such as subscription concerts at Kyoto Concert Hall, operas and concerts at ROHM Theatre Kyoto. It also offers many events seeking a connection to various generations or local communities. Programs for elementary and junior high school students, family-friendly concerts (even welcoming infants), community outreach, and instrumental coaching for young musicians are just few of them. Over the years, CKSO has been led by many distinguished chief conductors, including KOBAYASHI Ken-ichiro, INOUE Michiyoshi, OTOMO Naoto, and HIROKAMI Junichi among others. CKSO has received many awards, including the 46th Suntory Music Award in 2015, with HIROKAMI Junichi, its 12th Chief Conductor & Music Advisor. In 2023, CKSO welcomed OKISAWA Nodoka as its 14th Chief Conductor, and her refined sensitivity and powerful drive has brought a breath of fresh air to the orchestra. In the following year, CKSO invited Jan Willem DE VRIEND as its Principal Guest Conductor. His distinctive style that blends tradition with innovation has been expanding CKSOʼs repertoire and enriching its performances. In 2026, the orchestra celebrates its 70th anniversary, a significant milestone and the perfect point from which to chart a new course. While deeply rooted in its local community activities, CKSO will further strengthen its presence in Japan and abroad as an orchestra that “continues to bring the best music to the world” from Kyoto, a city that has declared itself a “City Open to the Free Exchange of World Cultures.”
