Biography

Kenichi Kawabata, a native of Shiga, Japan, has established himself as a distinguished clarinetist and a dedicated sound engineer, or Tonmeister. Born into a world of music, Kenichi's journey began at Kyoto City University of Arts, where he pursued a Bachelor of Music degree, studying Clarinet and Classical Music. His insatiable desire for musical growth led him to further studies at the Hamburger Konservatorium in Germany with Gaspal Buonomano, and subsequently at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he studied under Mark Van de Wiel and Timothy Lines, earning his Master of Arts degree in 2016.

Over the years, Kenichi's musical excellence has been recognized through various accolades including the Kyoto Music and Arts Prizes and being a finalist in the Japan Classic Music competition. His performances extend beyond the concert hall as he passionately participates in outreach concerts, engaging community venues with his music. 

In a notable encounter with renowned composer John Adams at the Royal Academy of Music, Kenichi was chosen to perform a clarinet solo piece, Stravinsky's "Three Pieces for Clarinet Solo," a work that had greatly influenced Adams in his youth.

Currently residing in Feldkirch, Austria, Kenichi continues to enrich his musical journey. He balances his time between refining his clarinet skills under the guidance of Professor Francesco Negrini and mastering the art of sound engineering at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHDK). Kenichi's work as a Tonmeister extends his musical talents into the realm of classical music recording, where he works to capture and shape the sound of music.

In addition to his solo clarinet performances, Kenichi has had the opportunity to contribute to various ensembles such as brass orchestras and the Symphonieorchester Vorarlberg, evidencing his versatility as a musician.

Through his dual pursuits as a clarinetist and Tonmeister, Kenichi Kawabata continues to shape and contribute to the world of music, echoing his passion and dedication through each note and sound wave.