Born in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture. During his time at Hirosaki High School, he self-studied the basics of violin and composition theory. After graduating from the Faculty of Education at Hirosaki University, he moved to Tokyo in 1955 and studied under Yoritsune Matsudaira. In 1956, he formed "Group 20.5" with Yori-Aki Matsudaira and others. Over the next five years, they held six concerts to present their works. During this period, he presented works using the twelve-tone technique, such as his String Quartet (1959) and Piano Sonata (1960). From 1961 onwards, he moved away from serial techniques and pursued his unique style, drawing inspiration from the Polish school, Bartók, as well as traditional Japanese performing arts like yōkyoku (Noh chanting) and taiko (Japanese drums). His music, which the composer himself describes as "Yugenism" (幽玄), is characterized by intricate textures, chaotic sonorities, and sustained tension, and is highly acclaimed, especially internationally. His works include Reflection (1969) for three groups of string orchestra, and Saikyō for orchestra. He has received numerous awards at events such as the International Society for Contemporary Music (ISCM) World Music Days and the Agency for Cultural Affairs Art Festival.