The legendary composer behind many of Dragon Quest’s iconic music, Koichi Sugiyama, has passed away today. He was 90 years of age at the time of his passing.
Announcing the prominent figure’s demise is Square Enix via the franchise’s official website. In it, it claims that Sugiyama dies last Thursday, September 30, due to septic shock. A deadly medical condition that causes severe drop in blood pressure in response to infection.
Prolific composer
Known as a prolific musician who has composed around 500 music pieces throughout his career, Sugiyama’s works is also staple in the JRPG series. His work having appeared in every single one of them, including the latest developing title, Dragon Quest XII. With a work so popular, his creation was heard in the recently-held Tokyo Olympics.
A force in the industry, Koichi Sugiyama made a name for himself during the mid-80s following an early career with then-Enix. In particular, through his initial project with the game called World Golf. But the musical virtuoso is mostly known for establishing orchestral music in video games—a feature that’s unusual at the time. Additionally, he is also known for paving the way for live recordings and performances.
Controversial persona
Despite getting praises for his wonderful creations, Sugiyama was quite a controversial figure in real life for his political beliefs. Specifically, as a nationalist with strong opposition against the notion of the Nanking massacre and the issue over “comfort women” during WWII. Even going so far as to lash back against the Americans for asking the Japanese government to apologize for its alleged “war crimes”.
As per announcement, Sugiyama’s funeral is being privately and can only be attended by family and friends. Square Enix also explicitly ask the fans to prohibit from sending out gifts or condolences to the bereaved family in the meantime. A “farewell party” for public participation in the mourning is planned at a later date. Although when is not exactly known at this point.
Eulogy
In a separate statement, Square Enix President Yosuke Matsuda shared his eulogy:
“I would like to take this opportunity to offer my deepest sympathy to Koichi Sugiyama’s friends and loved ones. Words cannot express the scale of the contribution made by Koichi Sugiyama from the birth of the DRAGON QUEST series until now. I remember seeing him conduct the orchestra in a DRAGON QUEST concert as if it were yesterday”.
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