Kusatsu Academy started in 1980 as the first regular summer music academy in Japan. The purpose is the acquisition of superior playing techniques, and moreover a pursuit for musical experience and knowledge through direct personal contact with internationally renowned artists from around the world. With an emphasis on training that elicits the young musician’s deepest sensibilities the academy has created a wonderful environment of the next generation of musicians. More than 6000 students have studied at the Academy. The Academy held a concert in Tokyo in 2006 inviting young musicians from neighboring countries in commemoration of the grant.