On Thursday February 26th, Ambassador and Mrs. Okamura held a Biwa concert featuring Ms. Akiko Sakurai, the 2014 Japan Cultural Envoy of the Agency for Cultural Affairs.
Biwa is a traditional Japanese short-necked fretted lute, often used in narrative storytelling.
To kick off the event, Ambassador Okamura, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, made an opening speech. Ms. Sakurai performed "Dannoura,” and followed by her introduction to Biwa and Kimono. Ms. Sakurai's music associate, Ms. Sumie Kaneko, a Koto and Shamisen player, then performed "Sagi Musume" on Shamisen and discussed the instrument with audience. Ms. Sakurai closed the event by playing "Nasu no Yoichi."
Many Deputy Permanent Representatives from UN Missions attended this concert. There was a reception following the performances, during which the audience were able to interact with the performers. Many also joined in singing along with Ambassador Okamura’s piano.
In addition to New York, Ms. Sakurai has also had concerts and lectures in other locations including Brazil, Italy and Albania. |
