Keisuke Wakao

Keisuke Wakao serves as faculty at New England Conservatory (NEC) within The College's Woodwinds department. He holds the position of assistant principal oboe with the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), specifically occupying the Farla and Harvey Chet Krentzman chair. His professional affiliations include faculty appointments at the Manhattan School of Music and direction of the Keisuke Wakao Oboe Camp in Tokyo.

Wakao's research and performance interests center on advanced oboe techniques, orchestral repertoire, and chamber music collaboration. His career demonstrates deep engagement with both classical concert traditions and contemporary commissions, notably through his association with composers like John Williams. He maintains active performance partnerships with leading orchestras and conductors globally.

His accolades include the prestigious dedication of John Williams' Oboe Concerto, recognition as Principal Oboe of the New World Symphony, and finalist standing at the Lucarelli International Oboe Competition. These honors reflect his significant contributions to orchestral performance and wind repertoire development.

• Director, Daikanyama Hillside Terrace Music Festival (Tokyo)
• Founder, Church of the Redeemer Concert Series (Chestnut Hill)
• Director, Ventfort Hall Summer Chamber Music Concert Series (Lenox)

Wakao's educational leadership extends through festival direction and specialized oboe training programs, fostering emerging musicians through structured mentorship and performance opportunities. His collaborations with artists like Christoph Eschenbach and conductors including Seiji Ozawa and Michael Tilson Thomas demonstrate his integration within elite musical networks.