ITEC 2001 Artists

Sho-ichiro Hokazono is the solo Euphoniumist of the Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) serving as a Master Sergeant and is also a member of the Euphonium company. In november 1992, Hokazono won the first prize on the Euphonium Division at the 9th Japan Wind and Percussion Competition (JWPC). He was also awarded the Highest-Award at the JWPC for his performance with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra under a conducting of Maestro Naoto Ohtomo at Mielparque Hall.

In 1993, Mr. Hokazono has the first solo recital in Kokubunji, Tokyo. In 1994, mr Hokazono finished the diploma course of the Concervatory Shobi. He has also studied under Toru Miura, kaoru Tsuyuki and Steven Mead.

In 1995, his solo performances were broadcast in the NFK-FM program "Promenade Concert". In June, same year, he was invited to give a solo recital at the International Tuba and Euphonium Conference held in Chicago, USA. He also appeared on the stage of the University of Kansas as a soloist for the U.S. Air force, Heartland Band. In August same year, he was awarded the Boosey & Hawkes by Euro-Japanese Academy, which was sponsored by Buffet Crampon, Japan. In January 1997, Mr. Hokazono was awarded honorable "Euphonium player of the year" at the British Tuba Confereence. In July, he performed at the World Tuba and Euphonium Conference held in Italy. In September same year, he was awarded the first prize on the Euphonium Division of the International Tuba and Euphonium Competition held in Guebwiller, France.

Mr. Hokazono has released three CDs. He instructs as well as plays in various professional and amateur bands.