JMT Web News

Hideo Nonaka, founder, and chairman of Yokohama-based wholesaler Nonaka Boeki passed away on September 16, right a day after celebration of his 100th birthday. Memorial reception took place on 22nd inviting industry leaders and musicians. The funeral mass was held on 23rd at Yamate Catholic Church, Yokohama in conformity with his wishes.

He succeeded Nonaka Gakkiten, musical instrument importer founded by father in 1918, and in 1953 launched Nonaka Boeki. Since the first overseas business trip flew from Haneda then U.S.-controlled air base in 1957, he has travelled around the world seeking business opportunities concluding exclusive distributor agreement with Vandoren, Selmer, Vincent Bach and other world-class brands of wind and percussion instruments, and accessories to introduce them in the Japanese music scenes. Today, Nonaka Boeki represents more than 50 renowned manufacturers throughout the world in the Japanese market.

He also contributed to expand Nonaka’s business adding Nonaka Inc., wholesaler and Nonaka Music House which serves as a showroom of Nonaka Boeki.

In recognition of his decades of commitment in promotion of symphonic bands and classical music, he received Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon from the Government in 1981. Accolades he won includes Blue Chip Company Award given from National Tax Agency in 1982 and The Ministry of Trade and Industry Award as a best contributed company through import business in 1991. In 1995, he was granted Chevalier de L’Ordre National du Merit（France）.

Nonaka stepped down to chairman of the company in 1995, and son Hideki took over the business.