This is an English translation of an article published in Nikkan San on October 17, 2019, as a part of my column, “The Way of the Pianist.
As a Japanese-born US resident, and a Japanese classical musician, I always saw a part of my role as a that of a cultural ambassador. It was not until 2011, however, when I truly realized the power of music, homeland, and communal cooperation under a mission. Japanese people living abroad all over the globe joined forces. in order to raise money to send to the victims of the earthquake/tsunami and the nuclear meltdown. I did my part in organizing and playing charity concerts in LA, Houston and Japan. Many people and organizations aided my efforts. That was my first collaboration with the Aurora Foundation.
Founded by its president, Dr. Akiko Agishi, Aurora Foundation has been giving scholarships to Japanese language teachers and cultural projects relating to Japan for twenty-one years now. Their award ceremony and benefit luncheon at the Riviera Country Club will be at noon on Sunday, October 27th. At the luncheon, I will be playing a thirty-minute concert, followed by the world-famous flower artist, Nicolai Bergmann.
I share Aurora Foundation’s vision for world peace through education and cultural exchange. Since its start in 1998, dozens and dozens of Japanese language teachers and projects relating to Japan have been supported by this organization. Concerts they present annually by such established artists like violinist Ryu Goto and singer song writer Sada Masashi, have always entertained the Japanese, and the Japanese-American communities in the greater LA area. I feel very lucky to have such an inspiring role model in Akiko, and am honored to contribute to their luncheon this month.
The Crystal Ballroom at Riviera Country Club is a fairy tale setting. Kawai America Corporation is generously donating the use of its beautiful mahogany Shigeru Kawai for the event. There will be many splendid auction items. Among them, I am offering my one-hour performance. Please reserve your seats, or tables, today! Let’s build bridges around the globe, together!