Celebrating the Legacy of Shuntaro Tanikawa through Choir
In a heartwarming tribute to the renowned poet Shuntaro Tanikawa, the choir project titled ‘Words from Somewhere,’ spearheaded by The Asahi Shimbun Company and the All Japan Choral Federation, has been officially recognized by the MECENAT program for 2025. This recognition is part of the initiative titled ‘This is MECENAT,’ which acknowledges the cultural and artistic endeavors made by companies aimed at cultivating a richer and more vibrant society.
Launched in 2014, the 'This is MECENAT' initiative has provided a platform for various social contributions driven by corporate engagement in the arts. The project ‘Words from Somewhere’ was conceived in response to Tanikawa's passing in November of last year, marking a deep cultural loss.
Tanikawa, whose works have inspired numerous choral arrangements, had a longstanding connection with the Asahi Shimbun since 2016, through a poetry series that bears the same name as the project.
The choir project involves a collaboration of popular composers, who will each select a poem from Tanikawa’s series and set it to music. This varied selection will culminate in a concert on March 22, 2026, at the Bunkyo Civic Hall in Tokyo, showcasing both newly composed pieces and beloved choral works by Tanikawa.
Multiple choral groups, including children’s choirs, will participate in the concert, which aims to provide a rich tapestry of Tanikawa’s choral music. There are plans to engage the audience as well, allowing them to join in singing some of the most cherished works, fostering a sense of communal remembrance and celebration.
Among the notable composers contributing to this project are:
- - Tokuhei Shinmi and Takafumi Nobunaga for mixed choirs
- - Makiko Kinoshita for male voices
- - Naoko Zuikeiran and Rinichi Menkawa for female voices
- - Nozomi Matsumoto for children's choirs
Each composer will complete their works by the end of September, and these premieres will take place at the upcoming concert in March next year. This event will also feature readings of Tanikawa’s poetry by his son, Kensasaku Tanikawa, alongside segments dedicated to reflecting on his life and contributions, creating a culturally enriching memorial infused with hope for the future.
Detailed information regarding the concert and ticket availability will be periodically announced in the pages of the Asahi Shimbun and through various channels.
Additionally, the MECENAT program itself serves as a unique reminder of the power of arts and culture in fostering a more empathetic and enriched society. The initiative not only honors Tanikawa’s profound impact on literature and culture but also embodies the evolving role of corporate involvement in cultural sustenance.
Conclusion
The recognition of the 'Words from Somewhere' project under the MECENAT program signifies an important cultural milestone, not just in honoring Shuntaro Tanikawa but also in promoting the significance of arts in our lives. As the concert approaches, there remains a palpable anticipation for a beautiful celebration of poetry, music, and community.
Let us all look forward to a poignant evening dedicated to celebrating a literary giant and reflecting on the essence of art and culture in our society.