Paolo Pandolfo with Amelie Chemin “Heavenly Joy” 2026 Japan Ticket

Overview

The world-renowned “genius” of the viola da gamba, Paolo Pandolfo, returns to Japan this September for a highly anticipated performance alongside the esteemed Amelie Chemin. After their previous Japanese tour sold out almost instantly, this duo reunites to take the audience on a profound musical exploration titled “A Journey to JS Bach – 200 Years of the Viola da Gamba.”

This performance features two masters of the instrument breathing life into the rich history of the viola da gamba, ranging from the Late Renaissance to the peak of the Baroque era. Their chemistry and technical mastery create a packed atmosphere of enthusiasm, offering a rare opportunity to hear strong, emotive music played on period instruments with extreme refinement.

Why Attend

• Experience a rare live performance by Paolo Pandolfo, widely considered one of the greatest living masters of the viola da gamba.
• Enjoy a “musical journey” through 200 years of European history, spanning the traditions of England, France, and Germany.
• Witness the intricate dialogue between two viola da gambas as Pandolfo and Amelie Chemin perform complex arrangements and original duets.
• Hear unique arrangements of J.S. Bach and other Baroque masters specifically tailored for this intimate and soulful instrument.

Schedule & Tickets Information

These tickets are lottery-based, which means they cannot be purchased directly. That’s why you should contact us to request them. Below are the complete details for the event, including dates, venues, seat types, and other important ticket information. Once you’ve reviewed everything, simply share your preferred ticket selection with us, and we’ll assist you with the process.

Please note: After receiving your request, we will first check live availability on the official platform. If the tickets are still available, we will try our best to secure them for you. If they are sold out, don’t worry — we can also provide tickets through trusted and verified resale marketplaces in Japan, ensuring you still get the seats you want.

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/09/13 (Sun) 14:00 Start	Philia Hall, Aoba Community Cultural Center (Yokohama)	All Reserved

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Background

The viola da gamba, often referred to as the “viol,” holds a unique place in music history for its haunting, human-like tone that flourished during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. This program, “Heavenly Joy,” traces the instrument’s evolution from the courtly music of Elizabeth I’s England to the extreme refinement of the French court under Louis XIV, eventually leading to the sophisticated compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach in Germany.

Paolo Pandolfo is celebrated not just for his technical brilliance, but for his ability to improvise and adapt classical works, making the ancient instrument feel vibrantly contemporary. Together with Amelie Chemin, who is a specialist in early music and a frequent collaborator, they present a repertoire that includes works by Tobias Hume, Sainte-Colombe, and Schaffrath, showcasing the deep emotional range of the viol.

Venue Information

• Philia Hall (Aoba Community Cultural Center)
• 2-1-1 Aobadai, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 227-8510
• Entry via the 5th floor of the South Wing of Aobadai Tokyu Square
• Near Aobadai Station (Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line) and the Tokyu Square shopping complex

Who is Paolo Pandolfo?

Paolo Pandolfo is an internationally acclaimed Italian composer and performer of the viola da gamba. He is recognized as a pioneer in early music, known for bringing a modern expressive vitality to period instruments through his extensive research and masterful playing.

What kind of music is included in the program?

The program is a chronological journey titled “200 Years of the Viola da Gamba,” featuring Renaissance pieces from England, refined French Baroque compositions by Sainte-Colombe, and German masterpieces by J.S. Bach and Christoph Schaffrath.

Are there any age restrictions for this concert?

Yes, the organizers have specified that preschool-aged children are not permitted to enter the venue. This is to ensure a quiet and focused environment for the performance of these delicate period instruments.

Is the seating for the Yokohama performance assigned?

Yes, the performance at Philia Hall is an all-reserved seating event. Because his previous shows in Japan sold out very quickly, it is highly recommended to request tickets as early as possible.

Can I still get tickets if the official lottery has ended?

If the official lottery or general sales are closed, we can check for availability through trusted resale marketplaces in Japan. We specialize in helping international fans navigate these platforms to secure verified seats for high-demand classical performances.