#Japan #Tachikawa #Raise the STREAM #Musica Promenade

The First Tachikawa Ninth Symphony: A Night of Community and Music

On December 22, 2025, the first 'Tachikawa Ninth Symphony' was held at the Tamashin Rissuru Hall, co-hosted by the local citizen organization Raise the STREAM and the amateur orchestra Musica Promenade. This event aimed to provide an enjoyable orchestral experience for the local community and to create a new year-end tradition. Over 100 citizens, ranging from elementary school students to octogenarians, participated in the orchestra and choir, resulting in a vibrant musical night that resonated throughout Tachikawa.

A Welcoming Atmosphere

The concert venue started to fill with eager concert-goers before the 6 PM start time, with a line forming as many attendees traveled from afar. Approximately 800 people of all ages gathered to enjoy the music. The lobby featured a pop-up bookstore by the long-standing local shop, Taimendo, showcasing books and picture books about Beethoven, which added a festive flair to the atmosphere and heightened the audience's anticipation.

Engaging Musical Selections

The first half of the program included well-known pieces such as the overture to 'Heaven and Hell,' the "Habanera" and "Toreador Song" from 'Carmen,' and "Nessun Dorma" from 'Turandot,' completed by the beautiful voices of soloists. Even those unfamiliar with classical music found themselves captivated, leading to enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Next in the program was the performance of RADWIMPS' 'Seikai,' featuring a children's choir of 36 students who rushed from school to join on stage. This newly popular graduation song was sung with heartfelt simplicity, enveloping the audience in its warmth.

The Grand Finale

As the performance transitioned to Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor, the collaboration between the 'Tachikawa Ninth Choir' and Musica Promenade created a resounding harmony that filled the hall, perfectly suited for the year-end occasion. The sight of families participating across multiple generations and the enthusiastic members of the choir, some challenging themselves with this classic for the first time, made the event truly representative of its tagline: a stage for the community.

As the final notes resonated, the audience erupted into cheers and applause, calling for an encore. The concert culminated with a medley of Christmas classics including 'Jingle Bells,' 'Joy to the World,' and 'Silent Night.' Many in the audience joined in singing, fostering a sense of unity that left a warm atmosphere as the event concluded.

Looking to the Future

Plans are already underway for the second 'Tachikawa Ninth Symphony' scheduled for December 27, 2026, at the same venue. The event signifies a step forward in community-driven cultural engagement, with aspirations to become an enduring feature of year-end celebrations in Tachikawa. Raise the STREAM is committed to nurturing cultural and artistic activities that promote intergenerational connection and community ties.

In a reflective statement, Takeyuki Ogaki, the representative of Raise the STREAM, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming participation and support that made the first event successful. He emphasized how this endeavor wasn't just a one-time occasion but a budding cultural marker for Tachikawa.

The positive response has already ignited interest in future participation, with many eager to join the choir next time.

Musica Promenade: More Than Music
Founded in 2003, Musica Promenade aims for musical excellence and brings joy through their performances. Besides their self-hosted concerts, they engage in various community events and were recognized with awards such as the Vienna Philharmonic & Suntory Music Restoration Prize for their activities in Kamaishi, Iwate Prefecture. Since establishing their base in Tachikawa, they have actively participated in local festivals, furthering their commitment to community involvement in music.

Explore their journey through their online platforms: Web, Instagram, X, Facebook.