Among Katsuya Watanabe’s distinctions are his positions as First Oboist with the Berlin-Deutsche Opera and other European orchestras. In June, 2008, his new solo CD, "Impression" was released in Japan and Germany to coincide with the tenth anniversary of his debut. It is an ambitious selection of classical works played as they only can be on the oboe.

After taking up residence in Germany in 1991, Mr. Watanabe became first oboist for, the Wuppertal Symphony Orchestra, the Badisches Staatstheater Karlsruhe and the Berlin-Deutsche Opera. He is also principal oboist for the ensemble Solistes Europeens Luxembourg. A solo artist as much as a leading orchestra member, Mr. Watanabe’s music is characterized by nearly incredible virtuosity and beauty that transcends the limitations of the instrument he plays.

Profile and contact information, etc. on Katsuya Watanabe at this site:
http://japansclassic.com/artists/imagine_02/katsuya_watanabe.html

"Impression" Katsuya Watanabe, Oboe
♦Selections
William Alwyn : Oboe Sonata
Johannes Wenceslaus Kalliwoda: Morseau de Salon Op.228
Henri Dutilleux : Sonate pour hautbois et piano
Nino Rota: Elegia
Antonino Pasculli: Grand Concerto on Themes from “I Vespri Siciliani” by Verdi

♦Performance: Katsuya Watanabe (oboe) David Johnson (piano)
♦Recording: February 6-8, 2008 Church of Jesus Christ (Jesus Christus Kirche), Berlin, Germany
♦Released in Germany by Profil
♦Released in Japan by King International


Katsuya Watanabe Recital Commemorating CD Release and 10th Anniversary of Debut

July 18, 2008 (Fri) 19:00 Kawaguchi Sogo Bunka Center LILIA (piano by Ikuko Odai)

August 6 (Thu) 19:00 Tokyo Bunka Kaikan Small Hall (piano by Ikuko Odai)

September 3 (Wed) 19:00 Meguro Persimmon Hall (small hall; pianist to be announced)