Naomi Shirai graduated from the saxophone class of the Paris Conservatoire with highest honors and received the Meyer Prize upon graduation.
She has performed in concerts in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Slovenia, China, Thailand, among others, and was awarded a scholarship from the Yonden Cultural Promotion Foundation. She reached the semifinals of the 4th International Adolphe Sax Competition.
« BG accessories have not only supported the foundations of my playing, but have also significantly expanded my possibilities for expression »
In 2008, Naomi returned to Japan after serving as principal saxophonist of the Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire. She participated in the Karlheinz Stockhausen Concert (Germany) in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2013, receiving the Performer’s Prize on each occasion, and was awarded the Kagawa Culture and Art New Artist Award in 2010.
In 2013 and 2024, she became the first saxophonist to be selected for the 10th and 16th ISCM / Asahi Shimbun Contemporary Music Competition “Kyogaku.”
« Their quality makes them products I can recommend with complete confidence to both beginners and experienced musicians. »
She is a member of the Japan Saxophonists Association.
