Hiroaki Tokunaga is a distinguished Japanese composer, conductor, and pianist whose refined musicality and remarkable versatility have earned him acclaim for nearly three decades. Seamlessly bridging the worlds of composition, performance, and conducting, he is widely trusted and admired by musicians across genres.

Displaying extraordinary musical talent from a young age, Tokunaga composed Festive Overture at 15, which was premiered by the renowned Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Junichi Hirokami, commemorating the 55th anniversary of his alma mater, Shonan Gakuen. The performance garnered national media attention and marked a striking debut.

He continued his studies at Tokyo University of the Arts, where he was awarded Second Prize in the Composition Division of the 7th Sogakudo Japanese Art Song Competition. In 2003, he earned international recognition by winning Third Prize at the prestigious “2agosto” International Composition Competition in Bologna, Italy. The award-winning piece was broadcast nationwide, further elevating his profile on the global stage.

Tokunaga’s compositions span orchestral works, chamber music, vocal and solo piano pieces, as well as music for stage and radio. His score for the NHK radio drama 2233 Years Old earned the Grand Prize at the National Arts Festival from Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs. In 2025, his piano piece Forgotten Wings was selected as a required piece for the PTNA Piano Competition—Japan’s most prestigious piano contest—and was performed by young pianists across the country.

Firmly grounded in classical tradition yet open to jazz, pop, and contemporary influences, Tokunaga’s music is known for its elegance, depth, and originality. His work as an arranger is equally celebrated, with numerous commissions from major orchestras and ensembles around the globe. 

In addition to his work as a composer, Tokunaga is an accomplished pianist and conductor. He has collaborated with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra and other respected ensembles, known for his musical sensitivity and clear interpretive style. His versatility and thoughtful musicianship have made him a valued collaborator in a variety of musical settings.

Beyond his artistic work, Tokunaga serves on the board of the Japan Association of Composers and Arrangers, where he contributes to the development of Japan’s music culture and supports the next generation of artists.

With his profound musical insight and refined aesthetic, Hiroaki Tokunaga remains a vital and inspiring force in today’s musical world. Based in Japan, he continues to compose, perform, and collaborate with artists and ensembles both nationally and internationally.