#Japan #Tokyo #Yui Ishikawa #Shion Project #DICT Records

Dreaming of Tomorrow: A Musical Journey of Co-Creation

Today marks an exciting milestone as the international co-creation education project known as 'Shion' drops its newest track, "Dreaming of Tomorrow." This ambitious project is the brainchild of DICT (Design, Innovation, Co-Creation, Technology), a community founded by social entrepreneur and physicist Shinya Yamamoto, aiming to blend Web 3.0 and DAO principles with innovative social experiments.

The Birth of Cross-Cultural Collaboration

Based in Shibuya, Tokyo, DICT serves as the central hub where creativity flourishes. The project 'Shion' was initiated by Shuhei Miyasaka, a member of DICT and teacher at a high school, in collaboration with the OECD Japan. It involved students from Japan, the USA, and France, who came together to create an original song centered around the theme of writing letters to their future selves in 2030. The initiative not only promoted artistic expression but also encouraged the participants to reflect on their relationships with friends, family, and society.

Workshops that Foster Deeper Connections

The project incorporated multiple workshops wherein students utilized their classroom time to engage in lyric writing. These sessions were designed to stimulate thought-provoking discussions on how they wish to connect with the world around them. By engaging in these workshops, students discovered a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities in society, while also gaining skills in songwriting and music production.

Leading Talent from the Animation Industry

With the contributions of professional creators, such as singer-songwriter Shuhei Kudo and composer Kenta Higashiohji—known for multiple anime soundtracks—the lyrical concepts devised by the students were transformed into a coherent and compelling song. Notably, famed voice actress Yui Ishikawa, recognized for her acclaimed roles in animated series, lent her voice to the project as the main vocalist, adding depth to the emotional landscape of the track. The recording process was not just for the professionals; students participated as background vocalists, giving them a taste of the industry they often dream of joining.

Visual Storytelling via Cover Art

The project also involved visual artists, with students from PRIDE Schools Innovation High School in the USA contributing to the cover art for the single, thus enriching the song's narrative with visual storytelling. The collaboration across different schools and cultures epitomizes the essence of 'Shion', encouraging creativity beyond borders.

The Music Release and Future Endeavors

'"Dreaming of Tomorrow' is officially released via DICT Records today, allowing a global audience to stream or download it through various platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. The track, featuring two versions, aims to inspire listeners to reflect on their future aspirations and the connections they wish to foster.

As part of its ongoing commitment to international collaboration, the project team plans to translate the song's lyrics into various languages, further promoting intercultural dialogue through music. The initiative embodies DICT's vision of blending design, innovation, and technology to create new avenues for creativity and education.

In conclusion, 'Shion' stands as a testament to the power of artistic collaboration, bridging gaps between cultures, age groups, and professional backgrounds. Through music and shared experiences, its participants have not only produced a unique song but have also formed lasting connections that will influence their futures positively.