Takaoki Onishi receives the Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts from the Agency of Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan.
Baritone Takaoki Onishi recognized for his achievements; received the 74th (fiscal year 2023) Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists of Music.
The Art Encouragement Prizes are historically traditional prizes established in 1950 presented by the Agency for Cultural Affairs to persons whose outstanding achievements are prominent. In the 11 fields: drama, film, music, dance, literature, fine arts, broadcasting, popular entertainment, development of the arts, criticism, and media arts, the Art Encouragement Prize and Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists are selected. Takaoki Onishi was awarded the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists of Music for his substantial results in the performances in 2023 including "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg" at Biwako Hall (conducted by Ryusuke Numajiri), "Don Giovanni" at Hyogo Performing Arts Center (conducted by Yutaka Sado), "A Way from Surrender" opera composed by Michiyoshi Inoue, and Schubert Mass No. 5 with Bach Collegium Japan (conducted by Masaaki Suzuki).
Please see the website of the Agency for Cultural Affairs for detailed description of his award.
In May 2025, Takaoki will be making his company debut at Minnesota Opera, singing the role of Figaro in IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA (Role debut, Premiere Cast)