|
The Japanese-born multifaceted choral conductor, music educator, guitarist, pianist, singer, composer, and arranger, Jun Terasawa, obtained his Associate of Arts degree in Music with an emphasis in Piano from Northwest College (NWC): Music Department in Powell, Wyoming (2008-2011); his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, with an emphasis in Voice from University of Wyoming (UW): Department of Music in Laramie (2012-2016); his Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from Colorado State University (CSU): School of Music, Theatre, and Dance in Fort Collins (August 2016-May 2018), where he studied with Dr. James Kim. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Glenn Korff School of Music (since August 2024; expected graduation: May 2027), guided by Dr. Peter Eklund. His dedication to fostering musical growth spans all ages and levels, as he provides steadfast support and guidance to both students and colleagues.
During his time at CSU, Jun Terasawa demonstrated both leadership and artistry through two graduate recitals, where he conducted and composed a diverse range of choral works. A highlight of his conducting achievements was Franz Schubert’s Mass in G major, performed with the CSU Concert Choir and a string quartet. In addition, he directed some of his personal favorites, including J.S. Bach's Motet Lobet den Herrn, alle Heiden BWV 230, and A. Bruckner’s Christus factus est, showcasing his versatility. Jun also premiered several of his original compositions in a dedicated composition recital, including The Cat That Lived a Million Times (text by Y. Sano), which he conducted. His work in these recitals reflected a deep commitment to both classical and contemporary music, as well as his ability to engage audiences through both traditional and modern choral works.
Post-graduation, Jun Terasawa has held prominent teaching and conducting roles in diverse settings, including: K-12 Music Teacher at Valier Public Schools in Montana, USA (2018-2019); Director of Musical Activities at American Global Prep School in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (2019-2020; 2020-2023); Voice, Guitar, Ukulele, and Composition Instructor at Sheer Music Schools (SMS), Kashiwa/Funabashi campuses in Japan (2020-2024); Music Director of the Kashiwa Children’s Choir (KCC) in Kashiwa, Japan (2021-2024); Assistant Conductor of Chor Menora (CM), a women’s choir in Kashiwa, Japan; Conductor of Women’s Choir NAYUTA, a women’s choir in Tokyo, Japan (2023-2024).
Jun Terasawa's innovative teaching methods were highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In early 2020, he pioneered a cutting-edge studio setup at SMS that allowed students and instructors to safely engage in real-time music-making without compromise. This model was adopted across all 98 SMS locations in Japan, leading to significant enrollment growth at the Kashiwa campus, from 93 students in mid-2020 to 204 by late 2021. Over 4.5 years, Jun delivered an impressive 11,143 lessons, thanks to his meticulous time management and creative lesson planning.
As a voice instructor outside of SMS, Jun's students have earned prestigious accolades: Anri Ogasawara won first place out of over 48,000 applicants in the prestigious Japanese audition TV program, "iCONZ, Dreams For Children," and was a finalist in Keio University’s Duet Contest. Tomoka Kawano was accepted to Aichi University of the Arts. Mayumi Enomoto (Myui) won the Grand Prize and New Face Award at This Touhou Arrangement is Amazing 2023 and was a finalist in the Diverse System Audition 2024. Lana Kimbara was a finalist in Keio University’s Duet Contest and secured first place in its A Cappella Contest. Yuki Yoshiyuki took first place in the A Cappella Contest at Dokkyo University. Hina Takagi was admitted to Tokyo College of Music for vocal performance. Shuri Kamaya won first place in the Junior Classical Music Competition in Japan.
Taiyo to Odore, Tsukiyo ni Utae debuted in July 2023 under Pony Canyon. They quickly gained recognition in the anime and J-pop scene, performing the ending theme for the anime Tohai: Ura Rate Mahjong Tohai Roku and appearing at major music festivals, such as @JAM EXPO and Animelo Summer Live 2024. Jun, as their exclusive vocal coach, has played a significant role in their vocal development and stage performance.
Between 2020 and 2024, Jun Terasawa served as conductor for three choirs in Japan: Chor Menora (CM) (SSAA, 30 singers); Kashiwa Children’s Choir (KCC) (SSAA(B), 50 singers), Women’s Choir NAYUTA (SSAA, 15 singers). His dedication to KCC led to successful performances, including The 18th KCC Biennial Concert. Most recently, he conducted both CM and KCC with 76 singers in Anpanman's March (M. Takashi/M. Ueda) at The 41st Kashiwa Choral Festival. He also conducted Women’s Choir NAYUTA at The 76th Japan Choral Association (JCA) Regional (Tokyo Division) Competition.
In addition to his work as a conductor and educator, Jun Terasawa is an active composer and arranger. He studied composition under Dr. Anne Guzzo at the University of Wyoming and Dr. James David at CSU, earning second place in the CSU Art Song Composition Contest for his setting of Emily Dickinson’s poem I heard a Fly buzz - when I died.
Jun Terasawa contributed his piano talents to the haunting track Happiness of the Dead by jon-YAKITORY, which was featured as the ending theme for the anime Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead. Released in 2023, this song delves into themes of existentialism and the pursuit of happiness amidst chaos. Jun's delicate piano performance added emotional depth to the composition, creating a poignant contrast with the heavier lyrical content. His work helped to shape the song’s melancholic yet ethereal atmosphere, enhancing its impact in both the anime and J-pop music scenes. |
