We received the 59th Takehiko Kurushima Cultural Award.
We received the 59th Takehiko Kurushima Cultural Award.
I have some good news. I have been awarded the Takehiko Kurushima Cultural Award by the Japan Youth Cultural Center, a public interest incorporated foundation. I attended the award ceremony yesterday at the Publishing Club Hall in Jimbocho, Tokyo, together with Representative Director Masato Oshiki.
The awardee received a certificate, a plaque, and a prize of 300,000 yen from the foundation's chairman, Seijiro Eto.
On behalf of the selection committee, Wakaida Masafumi (Professor at Nishogakusha University and former Setagaya Ward Superintendent of Education) gave a detailed explanation of the reasons for awarding the award, including, "In recognition of the activities of the orchestra, comprised of students ranging from fourth graders to university students from Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima prefectures affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, they have brought courage and inspiration to children and adults in the disaster-stricken areas through their strong, beautiful music."
Representative Director Oshiki gave an award speech. His words of gratitude were humble and comforting, as expected from Mr. Oshiki, the president of Yamaha Music Japan .
★You can listen to the speech here.
The Iwate Nippo newspaper, which is a director of the Tohoku Youth Orchestra, featured the story in their morning paper today , with comments from the orchestra members.
I am very grateful to receive this historic award. I will continue to work hard and not become complacent.