#Japan #Tokyo #Disability Awareness #Connecting Music #Ayako Ozawa

Connecting Music Concert 2023

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is pleased to announce the first Connecting Music Concert of the Year 8, inviting applications from attendees. This event is dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of disabilities and facilitating a barrier-free society where all citizens can live together in harmony.

The concert serves as a platform for individuals with disabilities and their supporters to showcase their creative talents through performances such as singing and instrumental music. Last year, attendees expressed profound feelings, noting that each performer shone brightly, and the event highlighted the universal joy that music brings, regardless of challenges.

Event Details

• - Name: Year 8, First Connecting Music Concert
• - Date and Time: October 3, 2023 (Saturday)

- Doors open at 13:00 / Performance starts at 14:00 (Scheduled to end at 17:00)

• - Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly Hall, 1st Floor, Citizens' Hall

Performers

The concert will feature a mix of applicants and guest performers. The following artists are confirmed to perform:

• - Ayako Ozawa: A singer living with muscular dystrophy. Diagnosed at 20, she defied despair by choosing to live fully in the moment. Ayako has performed nationally and internationally, including at the Tokyo Paralympics. Apart from her musical career, she is also a model, TV host, and a mother, showcasing her multifaceted talents.

• - Takaaki Shirai: A soulful violinist who lost his sight at the age of three and began playing violin under parental encouragement. A graduate of Toho Gakuen School of Music, Takaaki has performed solo and participated in public speaking engagements across the country. Notably, he contributed to the soundtrack of the documentary "Interpreters of the Heart" released in 2022.

Attendance Information

Applications to attend the concert are now being accepted.
1. Application Period: From August 25, 2023, to September 30, 2023.
- Note: Applications may close once capacity is reached.
2. How to Apply:
- Applications can be made via the official website, email, or fax.
- For detailed instructions, please refer to the additional guidelines on our website.
3. Contact Information:
- Connecting Music Concert Office:
- Phone: 070-4398-2207 (Weekdays, 10:00 - 17:00)
- Email: info(at)tsunagaruongakukai.com (please convert (at) to @ to contact us)

Organized By

This event is organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, including the Bureau of Cultural Affairs and the Bureau of Disability Services.

For more information, please visit our official website: Connecting Music Concert

Inquiries

• - For venue-related queries: Bureau of Cultural Affairs, Cultural Promotion Department: 03-5000-7235
• - For application-related questions: Bureau of Disability Services, Planning Division: 03-5320-4147