#Japan #Tokyo #Jun-Ei Ohsako #Kokoro no Shiki #Japanese Songs

Celebrating Japan's Cultural Heritage through Music

The renowned sound travel director and violinist Jun-Ei Ohsako has recently released his latest CD, ‘Kokoro no Shiki'. This album showcases the profound beauty of traditional Japanese children's songs, infused with the timeless genius of Vivaldi. In a world increasingly dominated by digitalization, Ohsako emphasizes the importance of fostering connections across generations through the rich legacy of these melodies.

The Essence of 'Kokoro no Shiki'

Japan’s cultural treasures, notably its children's songs and choral works, hold a unique place in hearts across generations. They are not merely songs; they are shared experiences that bind families, nurturing a sense of empathy and connection. Ohsako believes that in order to maintain our humanity in today’s fast-paced society, it's essential to revisit the past and recognize the universal themes these songs embody. Amidst Taiwan culture, the focus is on the heartwarming moments that arise when families come together to sing, enhanced by the charming power of 'Dōyō' (children's songs) and 'Shōka' (popular songs).

The melodies on ‘Kokoro no Shiki’ serve to evoke the rich tapestry of Japan’s four seasons, each illustrated through the enchanting landscape of children’s songs. This collection contains 16 tracks that are woven together to narrate a sonic journey through the seasons.

A Unique Fusion of Music

In this album, Ohsako merges the essence of Japanese children's songs with Vivaldi's famous ‘The Four Seasons’, creating a fresh and heartwarming sound. Vivaldi’s work resonates deeply with Japanese listeners, and its integration serves to highlight both Japan and Italy’s shared appreciation for nature’s cycles. The synergy between ’Dōyō’ and classical music bridges cultural divides, making this album accessible and enjoyable for global audiences.

Reflecting on this artistry, it’s remarkable to consider that many of these beloved songs emerged during the Meiji and Taisho periods—a time when the influences of Western civilization were just beginning to take root in Japan. Renowned composers of the era artfully absorbed these influences, creating music that transcended cultural boundaries. For over a century, these compositions have been passed down through generations, holding a treasured spot in the country’s musical landscape.

The Journey Through Seasons

The arrangement of each track is carefully crafted to reflect the seasonal transitions:
1. Spring's Heart – Compiled by Tatsuhiko Nakahara with songs like Sakura Sakura and Haruno Ogawa.
2. Summer's Heart – Curated by Mayuka Sakai, featuring melodies such as Hamabe no Uta and Tanabata-sama.
3. Autumn's Heart – Developed by Yoichiro Honda, showcasing tunes like Takibi and Momiji.
4. Winter's Heart – Composed by Tsutomu Tagashira, including Fuyu no Seiza and Hinamatsuri.

Each piece connects listeners to the distinct essence of each season, inviting them to reflect on their personal experiences and memories associated with these periods.

A Collaborative Ensemble

The album’s richness is enhanced through performances by talented musicians, including Jun-Ei Ohsako on violin, Mikiko Horiuchi on cello, and Kaori Denshō on piano. Their collaboration results in a heartfelt array of sounds that celebrate Japan’s seasonal beauty.

Release Date: April 13, 2025.
Price: 2,200 JPY (tax included).

Where to Buy:

• - Yamano Music

- Chofu Parco Store: 042-489-5334
- Tama Plaza Terrace: 045-905-0823
- Sogo Omiya: 048-646-2529

• - OTOTABI Online Shop (found on Jun-Ei Ohsako’s official website)

As we look forward to the release of ‘Kokoro no Shiki’, Ohsako’s dedication to honoring and sharing the beauty of Japan's music continues to inspire us all—reminding us of the emotional power harnessed within melodies that transcend time and culture.