Katsumi Ishihara@(Tenor)

Mr.Ishihara graduated summa cum laude ( with honours ) from the Tokyo College of Music where he majored in Opera.

His talent was immediately noticed and while still at college he was given special opportunities to sing solo with first -class professional singers in Beethoven's 9th Symphony and Gounod's Missa Solemnis. His performances were received very favorably.

He won the Japanese-Italian Vocal Competition and studied in Milan, Italy. After winning the International competition in Treviso he made his debut as Ferrando in Cosi Fan Tutte at the Treviso Civic Theatre.

Upon his return to Tokyo he made stage appearances as Rodolfo in La Bohème, Don José in Carmen, Tamino in Die Zauberflöte, Alfredo in Traviate, Roméo et Juliette, Alfread in Die Fledermaus ( 40th Anniversary performance of the Nikikai ) and Rinuccio in Ganni Suhicchi. All of these performances received very favorable reviews, Among his other stage performances are Händel's Messiah, Verdi's Requiem and Beethoven' 9th Symphony.

Mr.Ishihara has made T.V. appearances as one of younger generation of promising Japanese tenors of light opera. He gave his first recital in Tsuda Hall in July 1996. He played Rodolfo in the Tokyo College of Music's 90th Anniversary performance of La Bohèmein 1997. His, soft, rich opulent voice won the appreciation of the audience at tow recital's held in the Kioi Hall Tokyo in 1999 and 2000. The quality of his voice is unique and his captured the interest and high regard of specialists overseas. His work was also appreciated by the Italian Ambassador in Tokyo who invited him to perform for his many distinguished guests.

Mr.Ishihara's teachers include Maestros Guarini and Fellaro.

He is currently a Fellow and Instructor in Opera Department of the Tokyo College of Music.