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We are thrilled to announce that classical guitarist Kanahi Yamashita has been awarded the 35th Idemitsu Music Prize. One of Japan’s most coveted honors for emerging talent, the prize recognizes young musicians who demonstrate both exceptional technical mastery and the potential for a global career.

For Yamashita, this accolade is the culmination of a lifelong devotion to the strings. Growing up in a storied musical family in Nagasaki, she was performing on world stages by the age of five. However, her journey hasn’t just been about following in famous footsteps; it has been about a rigorous pursuit of her own distinct "voice." From her solo debut at 13 to her transformative years studying in Berlin, Yamashita has navigated the pressure of a legacy with grace and grit.

"This award feels like a bridge between my roots and my future," says Yamashita. "Music was the language of my home, but finding my own way to speak that language has been my greatest challenge and my greatest joy."

Beyond the 3-million-yen grant, Yamashita will be featured in a special commemorative concert. We are incredibly proud to support Kanahi as she continues to redefine the boundaries of the classical guitar on the international stage.