#Japan #Tokyo #Live Image Concert #REAL TRAUM #Budo

The Long-Awaited Return of the Live Image Concert

The excitement is palpable as the beloved Live Image Concert makes its much-anticipated return after seven long years. This event, showcasing an extraordinary array of performances, is set to take place on February 8 and 9, 2026, at the Tokyo International Forum, Hall A. With a legacy dating back to its first concert in 2000, the Live Image Concert has carved out a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts. The concert was originally tied to the release of the relaxing compilation CD, Image, and it has since evolved into a celebrated annual event until its interruption in 2020 due to the global pandemic. As fans long for the revival of this iconic concert series, their wishes have finally been granted with the announcement of its return.

The concert not only marks the comeback of a favorite but also celebrates the 45th anniversary of longtime music director, Takamitsu Uga. Many familiar faces from past performances, including Takashi Kako, Ryohta Komatsu, Yuji Toriyama, Taro Hakase, and Emiri Miyamoto, will reunite on stage to pay tribute to this milestone.

Adding to the concert's allure, the opening acts will feature REAL TRAUM, Budo, and Takuma Ishii, showcasing a blend of talents that promises to delight the audience.

REAL TRAUM is a vocal quartet formed by graduates from the Tokyo University of the Arts. The group, composed of tenor Kenichiro Takashima, baritone Yuma Sakai, and tenors Keisuke Sugiura and Takumi Torio, debuted in June 2023. They have quickly made a name for themselves by achieving sold-out performances at Hamaryou and Orchard Hall. Their collaboration with top orchestras such as the New Japan Philharmonic and their success with the musical production The Merry Widow have put them on the map as a must-see group in the music scene.

Budo, a pianist who graduated from Toho Gakuen University, found renewed passion for music after a transformative journey in Canada. Upon returning to Japan, he began sharing his performances on YouTube, amassing over 130,000 subscribers and becoming a rising star. With multiple festival appearances and significant engagements in musicals and films, his influence continues to grow. Budo has sold out shows at Suntory Hall and headlined a nationwide tour.

Takuma Ishii, a gifted pianist based in Vienna, has a remarkable history of accolades, including the 2nd place prize at the George Enescu International Competition, marking a historic achievement for Japanese pianists. With a YouTube channel named TAKU-on TV that has exceeded 100 million views, he has gained a loyal following. His upcoming solo concert at the Berlin Philharmonic is highly anticipated.

Both Budo and Ishii are set to perform alongside REAL TRAUM, with Budo taking the stage on the 8th and Ishii on the 9th. The trio's presence heightens the anticipation surrounding the Live Image Concert, and audiences are sure to be thrilled by their stunning performances.

Event Overview

• - Title: Live Image BEST
• - Date: February 8 (Sunday) - 16:00 Open / 17:00 Start

February 9 (Monday) - 17:30 Open / 18:30 Start

• - Venue: Tokyo International Forum, Hall A

Featured Artists:

• - Takashi Kako (Piano)
• - Ryohta Komatsu (Bandoneon)
• - Yuji Toriyama (Guitar)
• - Taro Hakase (Violin)
• - Takamitsu Uga (Music Director, Piano)
• - Emiri Miyamoto (Violin)
• - Orchestra Image

Opening Acts:

• - February 8 (Sunday): REAL TRAUM, Budo
• - February 9 (Monday): REAL TRAUM, Takuma Ishii

Major Performances:

• - Takashi Kako: Paris Is Burning
• - Ryohta Komatsu: A Wake-Up
• - Yuji Toriyama: The Song of Life
• - Taro Hakase: Etupirika
• - Takamitsu Uga: Cheers to Earth
• - Emiri Miyamoto: Wind Whistle

Ticket Price: 13,500 JPY (all seats reserved, children under school age not permitted)
General Ticket Release Date: December 6, 2025 (Saturday)
Ticket URL: Ticket Purchase

Promoted by: Kyodo Medias