Imagina

BYJ Collection Vol.1

2011-05-22T19:01:00.002+09:00

From Sendai to N.Y. Chorus Concert@ Carnegie Hall

2011-05-21T22:00:00.002+09:00

TONIGHT - Sirius-san Goes on Stage @ Carnegie Hall!

2011-05-20T15:18:00.009+09:00

Wuri sirius is all ready for the big night!

During the past two months, she has been busy going back and forth between her home in Kanagawa Prefecture and Sendai city in Miyagi, where she was active as a volunteer working to restore her hometown.

This morning I got this message from her:

"Today, we had a joint rehearsal with the people and children of N.Y. at the Nippon Club in Midtown. Musically, I think we've done a really good job. Most of the tickets have already been sold, but I can arrange to get some if you send me a message by noon.

Tomorrow, I will sing for the people of New York who are giving their warm support to the devastated areas, and also for my friends around the world with my heartfelt gratitude."

Sirius-san,

Good luck and fighting^^

Love,
flowerbossa

☆　Article in the JAPAN TIMES, May 8 2011

Sendai Chorus to Sing at N.Y.'s Carnegie Hall

People with Dreams

"Perhaps the times of our most wretched suffering, and every moment after in which we work to heal ourselves, can be called the times which we are dreaming. When we train ourselves constantly and dream of the future we want, then that is the moment we most intensely recognize our own existence. A person without dreams is a person who is already dead. Anyone who says they do not need dreams or do not dream at all is merely in the grip of a nightmare. So I want to dream the best dreams possible. King Sejong’s dream was for the people to be happy, and that dream became the cornerstone for the invention of hangeul."　

From: Bae Yong Joon’s “A Journey in Search of Korea’s Beauty”(Translated by Sora Kim-Russell)

夢見る人々

「・・・残酷なまでに苦しかった時間、そしてその後にそれを癒していく時間は、もしかしたら夢見る時間だと呼べるのかもしれない。絶えず自身を磨き、自身の望む明日を夢見る瞬間が、自身の存在を最も強烈に認識する時間なのだろう。夢を見ることができない人はすでに死んだ人だ。夢なんて必要ないとか、夢はないと言っている人もまた、ただ悪夢を見ているだけなのだ。だから私はできればいい夢を見たい。世宗大王の夢は民の幸福だったろうし、民の幸福のために彼が見た夢が、私たちが享受しているこの“ハングル”を創製する礎となったのだろう。」

―　ペ・ヨンジュン　「韓国の美をたどる旅」より
（翻訳：　根本理恵）

Kamsahamnida Kim In Moon-ssi ...

2011-05-10T22:13:00.003+09:00

Actor Kim In Moon 김인문 , Apr. 13, 1939~Apr.25, 2011

Fondly remembered by BYJ kajok as Chan Woo and Dong Hyuk's aboji.

Kamsahamnida, abonim.

May your soul rest in peace...

Bobby McFerrin " Don't Worry Be Happy"

2011-05-08T12:19:00.000+09:00

Sting " WHEN WE DANCE "

2011-05-07T12:29:00.003+09:00

Featuring one of my favorite cellists, Jacques Morelenbaum.

A Performance of "Rain, I Will Not Be Defeated"

2011-05-03T09:36:00.009+09:00

A beautiful performance of Kenji Miyazawa's poem
"Rain, I Will Not Be Defeated"
―　雨ニモマケズ　宮沢賢治　―

as performed by MLS and educational theater groups around the world in effort to raise money for the Tohoku, Japan relief

ＭＬＳと世界の教育劇団による東日本大震災復興応援プロジェクト

Wuri kajok cloud nine made her youtube debut in this video!

Chukka hamnida!

From CREA Magazine 2006

2011-05-01T20:54:00.004+09:00

Japanese New Yorkers and Moms United to Support Japan

2011-04-30T19:41:00.007+09:00

Penny Harvest Run For Change! April 30, 2011

BYJ and VANNESS with Dominique Leguillier, Executive Director of Children Without Borders
HOHOEMI PROJECT Event @ Tokyo Dome Dec. 2010

"Thank You" is not necessary; U.S. forces honored to help reopen Sendai

2011-04-26T10:06:00.007+09:00

COMMENTARY - "Thank You" is not necessary; U.S. forces honored to help reopen Sendai

NHK World News on the Reopening of Sendai International Airport

Yong Joon-ssi used this airport too!
See him in the beautiful video created by onpu in March 2009

courtesy of onpu's blog "Egao de Aetara (If we can meet with a smile)"
You can find the link to her blog on the right column)

The Power of Music!

2011-04-25T23:21:00.006+09:00

Maestro Seikyo Kim strikes the hammer during the rehearsal of Mahler's Symphony No. 6 "Tragic"
(March,2011@ Kanagawa Art Hall)

photo courtesy of Kanagawaphil on ustream

The Spirit of the Noh Performers

2011-04-23T22:12:00.013+09:00

A reader's contribution article in the Asahi Shimbun March 18, 2011 edition

On March 11, the day of the great earthquake, I was at the Nohgakudo (Noh theater) in Suidobashi,Tokyo. Because it was after the earthquake, the two leading performers came out to announce, "today's performance will either be cancelled or postponed". All the trains and subways had stopped. To us who had no way of getting home, the people at the theater suggested that we wait at the theater, and they even offered us the bento (boxed meals)of staffs who were not able to make it to the work place.

We were not able to get through to our families -text messages, cell phones, public phones were all unaccessible. When it was announced that JR (Japan Railways) was not going to move that day, the people at the theater started to look for places we could stay for the evening. There were five of us who had remained including an elderly person who was born in the Taisho era (1912-1926).

As it turned out, all the hotels were full, and so they said that they would take us to a performer’s home so we can spend the night there. Being general guests, we were hesitant, but because they insisted that they wanted to do what they could for people who had come to the theater, we decided to accept their kindness.

The traffic jam was very bad. The staffs were very concerned about the elderly guests, and after they obtained information that the subways had begun to move, they confirmed this and led us to the station. By subway, we first arrived at the Nohgakudo in Aoyama. Because it would take even more time to get to the performer’s home, they offered to put us up for the night in the warm room at the theater.

There is a heartwarming Noh piece called “Hachinoki”. Through the way the Noh performers worked together to help us, and we were able to experience something very much like what is depicted in the piece. I have come to realize that the spirit of the Noh performers who support the World Cultural Heritage, and the development of the long history of Japanese culture will prevail. Right now, I can only hope that a life of peace will return to the people at the disaster-stricken areas as soon as possible.

Noh-actor Mr. Minoru Shibata in his Official Blog, gives us some background information on the day’s events:

(translated by flowerbossa with the author's permission)

On March 11, the day of the great earthquake, our group “Tessenkai” was scheduled to hold our March regular performance. Although public transportation had stopped completely, there were about 20 guests who had arrived at the Hohsho Nohgakudo. Unfortunately, this day’s performance was cancelled.

I personally was not able to get to the theater, so I do not know the details of the event. However, I heard later that the theater performers and staffs had thought that as long as there were guests there to see the performance, they should do what they could. Since all of the Miyake family (performers of the Kyogen) were present, they Ukon Miyake-san had suggested to show their Kyogen piece.

Also, the Noh program for the day was “Sakuragawa” and “Sesshoseki”. Because Kuroemon　Katayama-san and Hisa Uzawa-san were there, there was also talk of performing the Shimai (dance) of the two pieces, however in the end they decided to cancel everything.

The staffs’ bento were passed out as supper, and it was decided that the five guests who were not able to get home will stay at Uzawa-san’s home.

They first set out for Tessenkai at Aoyama, but it took them 6 hours for the distance of 5 km. Since no one could guess just when they could reach Uzawa-san’s home, they ended up spending the night on the stage of Tessenkai.

There was an article in the Asahi Shimbun by one of the guests who had experienced this event, thanking the performers for their kindness.

I would like to applaud my fellow performers and staffs for having served our guests with sincerity.
I believe such consideration and sincere thoughts for our guests help us to increase our audience.
I would like to keep this event in my heart always, as a heartwarming episode.

Almost all the Noh performances for March have been cancelled.

I do not know what the future will bring, but when we do resume with our performances, I can only pray that many guests will come back to see us as just as before.

For now, patience, patience!

Poster of Upcoming Noh Performance
AOBA NO KAI
May 4, 2011 14:00 at Tessen-kai Nohgaku Kensyujyo
Noh "SHUNKAN" KANZE School

phone 03-3401-2285

第１１回　青葉乃会　能と素浄瑠璃　－能と語りを探る―
２０１１年５月４日　（水・祝）　１４時開演
銕仙会能楽研修所

能　「俊寛」

Synopsis of "Hachinoki": http://www.noh-kyogen.com/story/english/Hachinoki.pdf

For information on Noh in English: http://www.the-noh.com/index.html

Children's voices soothe Iwate survivors | The Japan Times Online

2011-04-22T06:57:00.006+09:00

(photo: The Japan Times April 22,2011 edition)

Children's voices soothe Iwate survivors | The Japan Times Online

Kesennuma 's Junior High School Graduates Move Forward...

2011-04-22T01:12:00.004+09:00

On Sirius and B.S.J.

2011-04-19T16:19:00.008+09:00

About wuri sister sirius...

Satovic had once described her as someone "with a mysterious power...she can walk the streets of Seoul with the same ease of walking around Tokyo, and though she's a top businesswoman who could deal with billions of yen,she's also a girl with pure eyes, a lover of astronomy and science fiction. She was the liason person of BSJ, undertaking many negotiations with outside parties, at the same time taking on tedious tasks as insurance paperwork so BSJ staff can move about freely and "safely".

Siriusさんは、ソウルも東京も全く同じように歩き回ることが出来て、何億も動かす営業の手腕がありながら、宇宙とSFをこよなく愛する純粋な天文少女の瞳をあわせ持つ、とっても不思議なパワーの持ち主でした。渉外担当として、初対面の人や大人の付き合いが全く苦手な私に代わって、交渉事を一気にスムーズにこなしてくださって、いつもメンバーが動きやすいように、保険の事務なども一手に引き受けてくださいました。
(ブロコリ B.S.J. サイトより　satovic)

Taking this opportunity, I would like to look back on some of the major activities of B.S.J. and also look at the great creations by wuri talented kajok!

(please watch on youtube)

and... LAST but not LEAST...

Yon-sama Gekijo by Satovic
(click to read last chapter)

Please support!

Japan-US Chorus Charity Concert for Sendai @ Carnegie Hall May 20

(Please see previous article for details)

BYJ sister "sirius" Calls For Support - Charity Concert for Sendai

2011-04-19T11:08:00.020+09:00

Sirius-san is a long time BYJ kajok who now lives in the Tokyo area, but is originally from Sendai. She was an active committee member of B.S.J. (a fan site led by satovic), and had supported BYJ and the LSH scholarship activities over the years.

This past disaster had a big impact on her life…

I would like to share her message:

Dear flowerbossa,

Thank you for your message of sympathy.
Not only Japanese sisters like satovic, but many friends from Korea and around world have sent me messages of encouragement, and as always I feel so grateful for the kindness of BSJ chingus.

With this recent earthquake, both my husband’s and my own immediate family have survived, but many of my relatives and friends have had their homes washed away and many even lost their lives.

Still, when I call them or e-mail them, they respond with a tough attitude.
I cannot help but feel respect for how they accept the present situation and how they are bravely setting out to restore the devastated land.
But in their hearts, they hold deep sorrow and anxiety.

I too intend to be by their side and do what I can until we can resurrect our city.

The charity concert I was telling you about earlier was something which was planned as the "Japan-US Chorus Festival" and we had been preparing for it from a year ago. But many of the participants live in Sendai and have become victims of the latest disaster. It seemed that we would have to cancel the event, but because many of the people involved strongly wanted to go on with it, we decided to hold it as a charity concert.

This is the official site:

Japan-US Chorus Charity Concert for Sendai at Carnegie

Featuring the "Hagi" Chorus, Sendai, Japan

I will also be participating in the chorus.

Experiencing this unprecedented disaster, I feel that we are being tested in many ways.

I hope many people in the New York area will be informed about our charity concert, and we would be most grateful if they would come to hear us sing.

Best wishes,
sirius

Japan-US Chorus Charity Concert for Sendai at Carnegie

East Meets West in Choral Harmony

May 20 2011 (Fri) 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM (Doors open 7:30 PM)
Admission: Free (ticket required), Donation suggested

Participating Artists:

☆　The HAGI Choir (from Sendai)

☆　The Alexandria Harmonizers

☆　The Men's Glee Club of New York

☆　The Men's Glee Club of Tokyo & Kansai

☆　The White Pine Glee Club (Detroit)

MC : Kaoriko Kuget (Host of "FCI Morning Eye")

日本語サイト

みちのく震災支援
日米合唱チャリティーコンサートat カーネギー

From the OLD & NEW Catalogue

2011-04-18T11:23:00.008+09:00

Kim Hyun Jung Returns! Playful Kiss Charity Event

2011-04-16T20:04:00.006+09:00

Playful Kiss Premium Talkshow & Live in Osaka

May 3 (Tuesday, public holiday)@ Grand Cube Osaka

Matinee Show: Doors open 1PM
Night Show: Doors open 5:30PM
Duration: 2 hours
Ticket price: 9,800 yen

Cast: Kim Hyun Joong, Jung Somin

Jane Birkin in Tokyo "Together for Japan" April 6, 2011

2011-04-16T19:28:00.007+09:00

Video streaming by Ustream

Video streaming by Ustream

Video streaming by Ustream

Jane Birkin Charity Concert "Together for Japan"　
April 6(Wed), 2011 ＠Shibuya Club Quattro

French artist Jane Birkin visited Japan and held a free charity concert sending her support with Japanese artists to disaster-affected people.
Organised by Parco Co.,Ltd. and L'institut Franco-Japonais de Tokyo

ジェーン・バーキン震災復興支援チャリティーコンサート「Together for Japan」
4/6(水) 渋谷クラブクアトロ
フランスの女優、シンガーのジェーン・バーキンが震災被災者の為に緊急来日、4月6日(水)渋谷クラブクアトロにて趣旨に賛同する日本人アーティストとともに無料チャリティコンサートを開催。
会場内に募金箱を設置し、集まった義援金は「世界の医療団(Médecins du Monde)」を通じて全額寄付された。
主催:パルコ　共催:東京日仏学院　

Prof. Donald L. Keene Claims He is Married to Japan

2011-04-15T23:01:00.007+09:00

Donald L. Keene, an American expert on Japanese literature and Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, will apply for Japanese nationality and live permanently in Japan.

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/15_25.html

Don't ever underestimate the power of music

2011-04-15T21:34:00.009+09:00

「音楽の力を決して甘く見てはいけない。」
Acclaimed conductor Zubin Mehta has arrived in Japan to conduct a charity concert benefitting the survivors of the March 11th disaster.

Mehta arrived in Tokyo from Russia on Friday. He held a rehearsal with the NHK Symphony Orchestra, which will perform Beethoven's Symphony Number 9 in Tokyo on Sunday. All proceeds will go to the disaster-hit areas.

Before the rehearsal, Mehta told orchestra members that he hopes for Japan's recovery, and that his thoughts are with the people.

"All the world is with you and with your country.

Everybody is crying with you.

I want to do part of something to lift the spirit of people.

Don't ever underestimate the power of music."

- from NHK online
(video clip in English : http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/09_06.html)

☆　This concert which will be aired on NHK on April 17.

2011年 4月17日 (日)
教育テレビ　午後9時00分～ 9時57分

ズービン・メータ　希望の響き

～東日本大震災チャリティーコンサート～

「世界中が日本の皆さんの勇気、不屈の精神に心から敬意を表しています。惨劇の中、自己統制を保ち、前進しようとしているその姿に感動を覚えています。今以上に強い日本になることを世界中が願っています。日本は世界の模範となるでしょう。」
（ズービン・メータ）

急遽開催が決まった東日本大震災チャリティーコンサートから、ベートーベンの交響曲第9番をお送りします。指揮はズービン・メータさん。3月11日、フィレンツェ歌劇場の日本公演のために来日していたメータさんは、日本で、震災の惨状を目の当たりにしたのです。
これまでメータさんはインド西部地震など危機的な状況下で指揮台に立ち、人々を勇気づけてきました。「音楽家にはそういったことをする義務がある。」今回のコンサートは、メータさんの強い意志によって実現したということができるでしょう。インタビューと演奏を通して、「困難な状況下でも、音楽は力を発揮できる」というメータさんのメッセージをお届けします。

組曲第3番からアリア　 ( バッハ作曲 )
交響曲第9番ニ短調作品125 「合唱つき」から　 ( ベートーベン作曲 )
ソプラノ：並河寿美
メゾ・ソプラノ：藤村実穂子
テノール：福井　敬
バス：アッティラ・ユン
合唱：東京オペラシンガーズ
管弦楽：ＮＨＫ交響楽団
指　揮：ズービン・メータ

Bach: Suite No.3, "Aria"

Beethoven's Symphony No.9

Soprano: Hisami Namikawa
Mezzo Soprano: Mihoko Fujimura
Tenor: Kei Fukui
Bass: Attila Jun

Chorus: Tokyo Opera Singers
NHK Symphony Orchestra
Conductor: Zubin Mehta

[ 収録： 2011年4月10日, 東京文化会館 ]

Coming to Japan from Korea!

2011-04-15T07:15:00.008+09:00

☆　Musical 宮　"Goong" Starring Kim Kyu Jong (SS501)
@Kyoto Shijo Minamiza June 11 to July 1, 2011

(photos 2, 3 from 宮official site)

☆John-Hoon　May 4,2011 @ Saitama Super Arena

Together... We Look Up...(updated)

2011-04-15T00:26:00.009+09:00

With Tommy Lee Jones

「上を向いて歩こう」　Sukiyaki Song
「見上げてごらん夜の星を」　Look Up at the Stars

Aigo! Bobby Kim Injured!

2011-04-12T21:11:00.009+09:00

Praying for your speedy recovery from the bottom of my heart ...

Bobby Kim injures his spine and thorax after falling 4 meters

April 12, 2011

Bobby Kim is in the hospital recovering from a dangerous 4 meter fall that resulted in an injury on his spine and thorax.

The singer reportedly fell down the stairs while returning from the second floor bathroom of a bar on April 4th. He was directly transported to a hospital.

On April 8th, he completed his physical examinations and his doctor said, “His 5th and 7th vertebrae have been broken, as well as his ribs. He is expressing deep pain in his thorax. While his 5th vertebrae has been pressed down, about 2 millimeters of bone has been broken, thus requiring another examination.”

He added, “The 5th vertebrae is especially important. Even if it does not seem to be injured, Bobby Kim cannot return to his normal activities for at least 2 months. In the worst case scenario, he could be paralyzed waist down if the bone fragment touches his spinal cord.”

Bobby Kim’s agency stated, “We may have to cancel’s Bobby Kim’s schedule for 2 months according to the advice of the doctor. We are going to do whatever it takes for Bobby Kim to recover fully.”

The singer put a halt on all of his activities, including his national concert tour which he successfully started last month.

Source: Newsen via Nate

Bobby with IU

LIVE from N.Y. - Concert for Japan Ryuichi Sakamoto and many others

2011-04-10T07:53:00.003+09:00

Live video chat by Ustream

Concert for Japan
合計視聴数: 46,527

100% of proceeds from this event will go to the Japan Earthquake Relief Fund. Please go to http://www.japansociety.org/earthquake to donate.

Japan Society presents a 12-hour concert benefiting organizations that directly help people affected by the earthquake and tsunamis that struck Japan. With dozens of music acts and performances throughout the day, confirmed performers for the GALA BLOCKS, organized by John Zorn, include Philip Glass & Hal Willner; Lou Reed, Laurie Anderson and Zorn; Ryuichi Sakamoto; and Bill Laswell with gigi band. In addition to the music, CONCERT FOR JAPAN offers special activities for all ages, from making origami cranes and washi lanterns for good wishes to unlimited access to Bye Bye Kitty!!!.

CONCERT SCHEDULE
11 AM–12:30 PM OPEN CONCERT
New York Suwa Taiko Association led by Hiro Kurashima, Cocolo Japanese Gospel Choir plus more to be announced!

1–2:30 PM GALA BLOCK
(GALA BLOCK ticket required)
SOLD OUT
Philip Glass, & Hal Willner
Lou Reed, Laurie Anderson & John Zorn

2:45–5:30 PM OPEN CONCERT
Performance order TBD
Masayo Ishigure (koto), Mutsumi and Masumi Takamizu (ji-uta sankyoku), James Nyoraku Schlefer (shakuhachi), Sadahiro Kakitani (ryuteki - gagaku flute), Taikoza (taiko), Yumi Kurosawa (koto), Taka Kigawa (piano) (Organized by James Nyoraku Schlefer) plus more to be announced!

6–7:30 PM GALA BLOCK
(GALA BLOCK ticket required)
SOLD OUT
Ryuichi Sakamoto with Special Guests
Bill Laswell with gigi band

8–11 PM OPEN CONCERT
(seating is first come, first served)
Performance order TBD
Hard Nips, Echostream, The Suzan, Me & Mars, DJ Aki (Organized by Hayden Brereton, Superglorious)
Plus Salmé from Tokyo!

http://www.japansociety.org/
http://www.facebook.com/japansociety
http://www.youtube.com/japansocietynyc
http://twitter.com/japansociety

To the People of Hong Kong - Arigato, 謝謝!

2011-04-09T21:03:00.007+09:00

Song created from the poem "Ame ni mo makezu" by Kenji Miyazawa
(a famous Japanese poet from Morioka, Iwate Prefecture)

Be not Defeated by the Rain
by Kenji Miyazawa
English Translation by David Sulz

Be not defeated by the rain,
Nor let the wind prove your better.
Succumb not to the snows of winter.
Nor be bested by the heat of summer.
Be strong in body.
Unfettered by desire.
Not enticed to anger.
Cultivate a quiet joy.
Count yourself last in everything. Put others before you.
Watch well and listen closely. Hold the learned lessons dear.
A thatch-roof house, in a meadow, nestled in a pine grove's shade.
A handful of rice, some miso, and a few vegetables to suffice for the day.
If, to the East, a child lies sick: Go forth and nurse him to health.
If, to the West, an old lady stands exhausted: Go forth, and relieve her of burden.
If, to the South, a man lies dying: Go forth with words of courage to dispel his fear.
If, to the North, an argument or fight ensues:
Go forth and beg them stop such a waste of effort and of spirit.
In times of drought, shed tears of sympathy.
In summers cold, walk in concern and empathy.
Stand aloof of the unknowing masses:
Better dismissed as useless than flattered as a "Great Man".
This is my goal, the person I strive to become.

Background to Ame ni mo makezu

After Miyazawa Kenji's death, a single, black notebook was found in a pocket in the lid of his favourite trunk. This is the famous "Ame ni mo makezu" notebook. The poem is written in midst of his repetitious copying of "namu myoho renge kyo"(*) which shows his earnest nature and his reflections on letting go of the desire for pleasure.

The 11-3 at the beginning of the poem refers to the date, November 3rd, Showa 6 (1931).
At that time, Kenji was lying sick in bed but his handwriting is not what one would expect from a sick person; it is big, bold, and there are nine pages written on both the back and front.

When this "Ame ni mo makezu" was written, we can assume that Kenji probably had a hunch that he was going to die. With such thoughts lingering in his mind, his earnest wish in the last line - "the person I strive to become" - can only strike at our hearts with a deep resonance.
In his later years, he formed the "Rasu Farmers' Association" in order to live in closer harmony with the agriculturists he so admired. In Showa 11 (1936) a stone monument was erected with the opening line - "In the shade of pine-tree grove in the middle of a field …" Even now, many people visit this site.
(The Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Society Foundation)

(Information from the site "The World of Kenji Miyazawa")

Japanese actor Ken Watanabe's recitation of the original poem:

~ KoKoRo ~ Argerich Takes it to Heart

2011-04-09T11:07:00.008+09:00

(photo courtesy of Yasai-san's blog)

Argerich supports Japan's Baby Network!

Argerich plays Schumann's "Kinderszenen (Children's Corner")

Our Prayers are With You...

2011-04-08T07:14:00.006+09:00

Ganbare!! Let's Save the Children of Tohoku! Updated with a comment from Dr. Toyoshima

2011-04-07T11:01:00.012+09:00

April 7

From flowerbossa:

Dr. Toyoshima has kindly given us his express permission to repost his article. In this short time, many BYJ fans have already given their support by giving donations, gifts and warm comments on his blog. He said that comments are always appreciated by the babies' families and medical staff, so please do not hesitate to show your support. AND please feel free to leave a comment here on my blog in any language you choose!

豊島勝昭先生のブログ　「ペ・ヨンジュンさんのＮＩＣＵ訪問から１年！がんばれ！小さな生命（いのち）たちよ」より

I have added photos from the Doctor's blog.

From Dr. Katsuaki Toyoshima ‘s Blog
“Ganbare!! Chiisaki Inochitachiyo ( Fight!! You Precious Small Lives”)
2011/4/5

This is Katsuaki Toyoshima of Kanagawa Children's Medical Center's from the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)

At the out-patient clinic, I heard a little girl’s voice calling “Sensei~ (doctor)" so I turned around. It was the (adjusted age) one year old Chii-chan’s older sister running towards me. Chii-chan herself and her mother ran to me too.

Chii-chan was born 4 months early, weighing a bit more than 600g, and was on the brink of death as she fought for her life in the NICU. Dr. Tanaka and I attended to her. Her big sister was “a good strong girl” waiting outside the NICU, while her mother tended to the baby. She seemed to like me from then. I’m trying to recruit her saying “ I hope you get to know this hospital even more and come back to work here when you become big girl.”

Many of the so-called overworked pediatricians and nurses had the experience of coming to hospitals when they were very young, accompanying their sick siblings. And through watching their parents and medical staffs, they often come to desire to work in this field. Some may take pity on these children for having to live with a sick brother or sister, but on the other hand, you may say that they are privileged to have had the opportunity to know what “kindness” and “care” is all about.

Now, Chii-chan is beginning to walk, but a year ago, she was still in the NICU.

She is the baby that appeared on TV, when Bae Yong Joon-san who as introduced in the “24 Hour TV” charity program etc. donated incubators to us, and had come to our hospital to show his support to the patients.

Tomorrow will mark a year from then. I think I never imagined that Japan will be hit by an earthquake a year ago.

With encouraging events like BYJ-san’s visit to our medical center, I think I had a vague feeling of a bright future that the situation of NICU would improve.

When he came to visit us, BYJ-san went around to see each baby and their families, listening intently to what they had to say and gave them strong encouragement.

When I asked him “ why did you make a donation to the NICU?” the following was his answer:

“Children are the future for all of us”.

Last year he had donated to the NICU, but this year he has made another contribution appropriate for the particular situation (the recent earthquake). I truly felt that he is a serious and kind person.

His words, “giving incubators to the children is about all I am able to do…” also left a strong impression on me.

I told him, “I am grateful for your donating these incubators, but what I would appreciate even more is that if your fans in Japan who are many in number, will observe your behavior of doing what you say you can do, and if that will lead to their support for NICU and the children in the medical centers, that “heart” will be a far greater gift then an “object” such as an incubator. This is something I also told Shuuichi Murata-san of the Yokohama Bay Stars (baseball team) who contributed to the “Kyuji Kikin 救児基金 (save the children fund)”.

If any of you Bae Yong Joon-san’s fans support the objective of our fund, we would appreciate it if you would make a donation for the sake of the children.

The size of your donation does not matter. To have as many people as possible come together to show they care, the babies, the families and medical staff who are doing their best even in the aftermath of this disaster will be greatly encouraged.

On Bae Yong Joon-san’s incubator, there is a gold plate as seen in the photo. It seems that it gives much encouragement to parents and grandparents of the babies who are Hallyu fans.

When the infants’ temperature is low, we use an incubator which is box-shaped, but once their temperature is stabilized, we change it to an open-type incubator which resembles an open car that has a removable lid.

It is a high performance incubator which has the capability of adapting to the child’s growth and temperature, and one incubator can function as two of them. In the future, Japanese NICUs may not be able to obtain many of these types.

But I am ready for the reality that we are entering an age that the issues we faced before the earthquake “we don’t have enough NICU beds, facilities, staff…” will not be easily solved after this disaster.

A year ago, I felt that “no matter how hard we try at the medical center, we don’t have enough things, oh someone do something about this”… But having experienced the earthquake I think I have strongly come “to appreciate the things we have and that things we have left, rather than cry over what we do not have”.

In this age when the economy will probably decline, the enhancement of NICU will no doubt be difficult, but I am reaching a conviction that I will not give up.

By thanking what we have, being grateful for the warm thoughts of the people who are willing to support us, making the most of what we have and what is left… Even if we do not have more in “quantity”, by improving the “quality” we can unfold our own ability to the fullest. And a feeling is building in me that no matter what the circumstances are, I want to save the children of Kanagawa Prefecture. We too will do our best, so we hope that together, each of you in your own way would support the medical care that will protect the children who will be taking on the role of reconstructing our country. May we ask for your understanding and support?

Dr. Katsuaki Toyoshima, Neonatal Division, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center

神奈川県立こども医療センター　新生児科　豊島勝昭
(translated by flowerbossa)

"Pray for Japan" icon by makishi-nim, arigato!!

Information on the Fund in Japanese:
http://blogs.yahoo.co.jp/nicu_sp25/8524991.html
Yong Joon-ssi with children at the "HOHOEMI PROJECT" Charity Event in Dec. 2010.

Super child actor Mana Ashida reciting a poem in the "HOHOEMI PROJECT" event at Tokyo Dome, Dec.2010

The two stars meeting backstage!

Children of Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture singing "Sekaiju-no-Kodomotachiga"
"Children of the World"

Mock Hill Records has also launched their own aid project. They will donate the whole amount from the sales of this CD (includes this song in the video-my friend Toshihiko Shinzawa-san wrote the lyrics!) to the Japanese Red Cross Society. This project will continue till they sell out 150 records (or until the end of April). I already got mine! IT'S GREAT! For details: http://mockhillrecords.com/shien.html

From onpu-san- Thank you Yong Joon-ssi and All BYJ Family!

2011-04-03T13:44:00.008+09:00

Message from onpu-san-

We human beings are terribly helpless in front of natural disasters which occur out of the blue.
It is a reality that is too cruel to be put down as a test.
All I am able to do at this time is to accept this reality.
Yong Joon-ssi’s thoughtful, heartfelt warm message and the generous donation he made as an expression of his feelings…..
I cannot say how much they lifted our spirits!!!
And the kind, encouraging support and cooperation from BYJ family all around the world…
Your sympathic warm hearts give us much comfort and strength in this time of sorrow and suffering and we are thankful that you are lending us your hand.
A man cannot live alone.
When we think about each other and help one another, we will always be able to see the light.
We cannot go on grieving forever.
I too from this place would like to share the hurt and sorrow and continue to think about what I can do.
It shall take time, but I will not lose hope and move forward to recover and restore this country.
Yong Joon-ssi and BYJ family around the world, please continue to remember us in your prayers.
I hope the whole world will be at peace.
Arigato gozaimasu. Thank you very much.

2011 onpu

(English translation by flowerbossa)

갑자기 찾아온 자연재해 앞에는 우리 인간은 너무나 무력합니다.

시련이라고 하기엔 너무 비정한 현실

지금은 이 현실을 받아들이는 것이 고작입니다.

용준님의 사려깊고 마음 쓰신 따뜻한 메세지, 그에 동반되는 다대한 기부

저희들의 마음에 얼마나 용기를 주었을까요 !!

그리고 세계 여러나라의 모든 BYJ가족 여러분의 친절하고 마음 든든한 지원과 협력

피재의 슬픔, 고통을 동행해주시고 도와주시는 따뜻한 마음에 아주 믿음직해서 격려받고 있습니다.

얼마나 감사한지 말로 다 할 수는 없습니다.

사람은 혼자 살 수 없습니다.

남을 헤아리고 서로 도우면 반드시 희망의 빛이 보일 것입니다.

슬퍼하고만 있을 수 없습니다.

저도 이곳에서 괴로움과 슬픔을 서로 나누면서 자신이 할 수 있는 것은 무엇인가,,,를 생각해보고 싶습니다.

시간이 걸리지만 복구,부흥을 향해 꺽이지 않게 열심히 살아나가겠습니다.

용준님, 온 세계의 BYJ가족 여러분,

계속 기도하시고 기억해주시기를 부탁드립니다.

온 세상에 평안이 있기를,

감사합니다.

(Japanese to Korean translation by chunsengyo-ssi, kamsahamnida!)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At this difficult time when she feels a rush of mixed emotions, onpu-san tells herself, I cannot move forward unless I regain strength… and this is the song she listens to to cheer herself on.

With her friend who became a victim of this disaster in her heart, she will go on thinking about the meaning of her own life as she has survived, though she does not have the answer right now. And she will pray for the tomorrow of the devastated areas.

This powerful song called “R” by the group Hi-Fi CAMP calls out to us to join hands and encourages each of us to do what we are capable of doing … the song’s lyrics beautifully overlaps with onpu-san’s own words…

And no wonder. Onpu-san’s son is a member of the band^^

Hi-Fi CAMP is an up and coming group based in Sendai. They are not only active with their own performance and recordings, but also write songs for other artists such as SMAP!

Hi-Fi CAMP's "This Moment, is Surely Not a Dream" performed by SMAP

PRAY FOR JAPAN by wuri sister tomochang

2011-04-03T10:05:00.004+09:00

Love to Japan from Paris!

2011-04-02T23:03:00.008+09:00

For more information:http://tsunamietdemain.tumblr.com/

Pierre Barouh singing "Samba Saravah"
in one of my favorite films of all time "Un Homme et Une Femme"

Participating Artists:
Martha Argerich
Ivry Gitlis
Akiko Ebi
Michael Guttman
Akane Sakai
Jun Kanno
Yasuko Mitsui

For more information:http://www.rivegauchemusique.fr/2010/09/12/test3/

Martha Argerich plays Tschaikovsky's Concerto No.1 with the students of Tokyo University of the Arts @the Beppu Argerich Music Festival in Oita Prefecture, April 2001

Our Prayers for You BYJ Sister Onpu-san and all Tohoku Kajok...

2011-03-31T22:59:00.002+09:00

Onpu-san is a lovely BYJ sister who lives in Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture.
She was one of the sisters who crossed our minds immediately when the big quake hit the area, and we were very anxious about her safety. Then Makishi-san (whom many of you will be familiar with for her wonderful photos!) was able to confirm that she was alright… what a relief it was.

But anyone in Japan could guess her troubles were far from over, and many were suffering from more severe damages in the area. Yesterday, I sent a message to Makishi-san to ask how she was holding up and sought for her advice on introducing onpu-san’s beautiful art/video works here. Makishi-san said that it would be a good idea, and she also updated me on her recent happenings. I would like to share onpu-san’s tweets since the day of the big disaster.

Also, I hope you will take a moment to take a look at one of my favorite video works created by her in the past. It expresses her joy and gratitude towards meeting this wonderful man, wuri Bae Yong Joon-ssi. Since she is a musician herself("onpu 音符" means musical note), I think that not only her artwork but her selection of music also speak to our hearts as well. I am full of appreciation for her sharing this work. My prayers for onpu-san , all BYJ kajok, and everyone coping with this difficult situation.

Onpu-san’s tweets since March 11, 2011

First tweet on march 11
In a bind. Family scattered in different places. Can’t get in touch with them. Electricity and gas is out, and getting frequent and strong afterquakess. The whole house in a mess.

Second tweet;
I was able to get in touch with my family. All alone in my house, and I’m scared. I can’t use my PC. I will cut my cell phone because I’ll run out of battery.

14 Mar (1)
I was in total panic during the disaster because the quake was so big and long. In our district, we got our electricity back.

14 Mar 4 (2)
Watching the cruel reality on TV, my heart is crushed. The messages of support from all of you and Yong Joon-san makes me feel warm, and I am so grateful that I am moved to tears.
(3)
I still cannot get in touch with my friend who lives near the coast, and I am worried. The IN and phone is still disconnected. The magnitude of the disaster is huge. I hope all of you will continue to be careful. I will try to save electricity too.

26 Mar
No water and gas yet at my home. But just now, I was able to get a numbered ticket to buy gas for my car and I’m waiting in line. I’m so happy!

26 Mar
Thank you everyone. I am covering my dishes with plastic wraps to minimize the wash. I was able to buy wraps at a supermarket nearby. There was no fresh food until about 3 days ago, but with the expressways starting to open, it seems food distribution is recovering little by little.

26 Mar
To friends; I am sorry to have you worry. I am thankful for your messages and they make me happy. Electricity was back in 3 days, and we plan to get our water back by the 28th. Only a few days to go. I was finally able to line up for heating oil today so that was a great relief.

26 Mar
I was able to fill my car with gas after lining up for 2 hours and a half. It’s the first time since we ran out completely on the second day after the quake. I’m SOOO HAPPY~~! (T.T)

26 Mar
Thank you everyone. With my car loaded, I immediately went to my parents’ house that already got its lifeline back. I was able to take a bath for the first time in 6 days, and I feel refreshed body and soul.

26 Mar
The lifeline we took for granted… I have really come to realize how important they are. Living in a safe and clean condition is something we must be truly thankful for. After coming home, I noticed that I have received many direct messages from you. I was moved to tears with all of your warm words. Thank you for your concern. I will now write back to you <(_ _)>

27 Mar
I feel ever so grateful for the connection between people, and I have nothing but words of thanks<(_ _)>
And today, our water system has recovered a day earlier than scheduled. I was so happy with the sense of running water that I washed up many things without even minding how cold it was.

28 mar
Ohh… I am so grateful for your words of support you send me every day. Hearing you say “we are all connected” makes me so happy!

28 Mar
My best friend who lives in the coastal area finally called me after a week and I broke down in tears. Carrying her mother who is ailing from a serious disease on her back, she reached her car and fled to a higher ground and spent the night in the mountains. Her cell phone was swept away by the tsunami while she was fleeing. She returned from the evacuation center yesterday, and listening to the stories she has to tell that are not reported on TV… the unimaginable left me speechless.

29 Mar
Dear friends - my friend and her mother were able to get back safely, but her house was completely destroyed. There are people missing in her family. She said that she didn’t let out even one yawn during the 2 weeks while she was evacuating… She said she was surprised to find herself yawning many times after coming back to her home…

29 mar
(my friend), she must have been under so much stress. When I asked her, what do you need, she said she wanted to take a bath…It hurt me to hear that she was finally able to bathe after 14 days since the quake. All I could say was “come back any time when we get our gas back...!” I feel so ashamed for not being able to do anything for her when I am here. Let’s pray and hope that tomorrow will be a brighter day then yesterday.

30 mar
I-san, music that gives me courage is what supports me♪Thank you for such wonderful lyrics that give me power. Tomorrow should be a better day than today… I will keep a song and smile in my heart and live today making the most of it. Y-san, thank you for always being at my side and supporting me! We may get our gas back today!

31 Mar pm (latest tweet)
Just as I was starting to think that we were moving forward very slowly… getting our lifeline back… I just heard that a friend I was worried about who was missing did not make it. This unbelievable reality… I am just so sad that I am losing all my strength. Tomorrow, it will be 3 weeks from the disaster. The traces are still huge, and I am in a state of numbness, at the same time feel this unfocused frustration… I can’t stop the tears from running down my face while I am doing housework…

Just as I (flowerbossa) was reading onpu-san’s last tweet with a heavy heart, I got a message from her:

Dear flowerbossa-san,

It has been awhile. How have you been? Thank you for asking about me - Aoba-ku of Sendai City where I live has been spared major damages. But the coastal area has been totally devastated. We are still under much anxiety.

And thank you for adding my youtube videos (onpu43) to your list. Makishi-san sent me a message to me about you too. I was so happy that you remembered me, and with gratitude towards your warm words, I would like to live on with a positive attitude.

Thank you very much for praying for us. I too will continue to pray. Please send my kindest regards to pallet-san.

onpu

TO WATCH VIDEO PLEASE CLICK THE PHRASE IN THE CENTER WHICH SAYS
YOUTUBE で見る

Reflections 04

SOCKS FOR JAPAN - A Way to Deliver LOVE & Warmth

2011-03-31T11:37:00.010+09:00

Wuri BYJ sister satovic shared this information with me, and I thought it was a meaningful and loving way to support the people in the stricken areas of Japan. Please read the info below plus the details written in the website, and share it with anyone around you who might be interested.
Arigato!

From the website SOCKS FOR JAPAN:
http://jasonkelly.com/helpjapan/

Here’s a way you can help Japan, directly and meaningfully.

Hundreds of readers in the United States and other parts of the world have asked me how they can help the survivors of the devastating earthquake that struck Japan on March 11. There are many places to donate money, and that’s a wonderful thing to do, but direct aid is also cherished by survivors.

My office location is perfect for managing a direct-aid operation because it’s close enough to the primary damage zone that we can physically get there to help, but far enough away that mail delivery is working. So we quickly set ourselves up to run this operation, called Socks for Japan.

Guidelines:

•Send only new socks. All human beings are comforted by a fresh, clean pair of socks. Other advantages socks offer this operation: they’re light, their sizes are easy, they don’t break, people need lots of them in disastrous times away from home, and people can keep them forever to remember that somebody from far away cared. Please do not send any other items of clothing, food, etc. Just socks, but go ahead and choose nice ones that will brighten somebody’s day. You might receive a discount by showing our letter to your local store manager.

•Put each pair in a sealed plastic bag. Want your socks to find needy feet asap? So do we! Please speed up our processing by taking socks out of bulk packaging, removing clasps or ties binding them together, and putting each pair in its own sealed clear plastic bag. Waterproof bags, such as Ziploc brand, are useful to people without homes. They serve a dual purpose: delivering socks in good shape, and providing a way for people to keep items dry.

•Enclose a care letter. Japanese people treasure letters, especially ones from foreigners. Survivors of the 1995 Hanshin quake in Kobe said that care letters were among the most uplifting items they received. So, please enclose a copy of your letter with each pair of socks in a plastic bag. For help composing and translating your letter, see our care letter creation page.

•Label, compress, and seal. You should now have a pair of socks and your care letter in each plastic bag. One more helpful item: a label. Either write on the outside of the bag or insert into each bag a piece of paper identifying one of these categories: man, woman, boy, girl, baby. Once that’s done, squeeze out excess air to make the bag as small as possible, then seal it shut. This preparation will make our inventory management and distribution a cinch!

•Write your email address noticeably on the package. The most efficient way for us to keep in touch with you, and track the status of your package once we receive it, is via your email address. Please write it on the outside of your package so we can communicate with you without opening the package.

•Write “Urgent: Relief Supplies” boldly on the package. This will avoid import duties, guarantee priority handling at customs, and achieve rapid processing through hubs. Packages are arriving more quickly than usual. Everybody is dedicated to getting this nation back on its feet — in clean socks!
Please ship your package to my office:

Jason Kelly
Plaza Kei 101
Wakamatsu-cho 615-6
Sano, Tochigi 327-0846
Japan
EMAIL: PHONE: +81 501-014-7773
Thank you for your support! When your package arrives, we’ll send a note to you
at the email address you wrote on it.

<日本国内の方へ＞

３月２３日:ボランティア募集！

世界中からたくさんの靴下そして心のこもった応援レターが届いています。現在仕分け作業が追いついていない状態です。ぜひ栃木県佐野市で私たちと一緒に活動してみませんか？年齢性別問いません。被災者の為に何かしたいというあなたの思いだけで十分です！

お問い合わせはこちらまで。　

担当　大谷
email:
Phone: 080-6421-0833

O Rei Dança!

2011-03-30T07:56:00.003+09:00

(photo of Kazuyoshi Miura from Mainichi Shimbun)

Obrigada King Kazu!
Força!!

Charity Football Match for Japan

Japan’s National Team (Samurai Blue) vs J. League All-Stars
March 29 March@Osaka Nagai Stadium

Yumi Matsutoya with Friends Of Love The Earth " Smile Again"

2011-03-28T18:18:00.009+09:00

Artists of Asia came together on Japanese TV on March 28 to show their support for Japan -
Dick Lee (Singapore), Amin (China),Lim Hyung Joo(Korea),ehru player Xu Ke(China)and Yumi Matsutoya(Japan).

Yumi Matsutoya

Dick Lee

From The Making of super stars by Leslie Kee
"ASIA IS ONE" in collaboration with 300 Asian Artists
dedicating to the victims of the Asia Tsunami Disaster (Nov, 2006)

Joon Sang... always...

2011-03-27T21:29:00.007+09:00

Children of Iwate Singing "Higher Than the Sky"

2011-03-26T11:43:00.007+09:00

"I found my school bag!" A first grader of Ishimaki city in Miyagi prefecture had evacuated from the classroom empty handed. He returned to the muddy classroom on the 24th for the end of school year ceremony.
(From Asahi Shimbun March 24,2011 edition)

A nursery school teacher of Ninohe city in Iwate prefecture, sent a recording of her children singing Toshihiko Shinzawa and Hirotaka Nakagawa's song "Higher Than the Sky". The children wanted to cheer the people up in the devastated areas. The song is being played on a radio station in Iwate (IBC)many times a day, and people are calling in to say that their voices give them a lot of power. The song writers Shinzawa-san and Nakagawa-san were interviewed by the station the other day to give their comments.

Introduction by a little boy:
".... many people helpled us. We are small, and can't do anything, but we will sing a song. Please listen to us. "Higher Than the Sky"
(Ninohe was also hit by the earthquake but not as bad as other areas.)

Higher Than the Sky
Words: Toshihiko Shinzawa
Music: Hirotaka Nakagawa/ Scottish Folk Song

People have hearts that are higher than the sky
Higher than any sky
So don’t give up saying it’s all over
Wipe your tears
And try to sing
Your heart, be high
Be higher, higher than the sky

People have hearts that are deeper than the sea
Deeper than any sea
So don’t turn your back
Saying you’re fed up
Fix your eyes on it
And believe
Your heart be deep
Be deeper, deeper than the sea

So don’t give up
Saying that it’s all over
Wipe your tears
And try to sing
Your heart, be big
Be bigger, bigger than the sky
Your heart, be strong
Be stronger, stronger than the sea

(translated by:flowerbossa)

BYJ kajoku will probably remember that Morioka city in Iwate prefecture is where BYJ stayed to learn lacquer art.

Jane Birkin Sends Her Love on Japanese FM Radio J-Wave (amended)

2011-03-25T08:56:00.016+09:00

Mar 25 (FRI)

French artist Jane Birkin was just on Japanese radio.
She had requested to give her message to the Japanese people on Japanese FM Radio J-WAVE. (navigator Jon Kabira)

(I will summarize the first part:

Q:Where were you when you heard about the earthquake?

I was home and heard it on TV, it was the most horrifying and shocking thing I'd seen in my life. I couldn't believe it.
My kids and friends called me immediately.
I watched the news all night long.
I have known Japan for almost 20 years, and I had performed in Sendai before.
I couldn't believe what was happening in Fukushima, horrifying , shocking
(repeats her self).

The next morning I went to a Japanese restaurant in Paris because I wanted to see the Japanese people. I have never kissed so many Japanese people in my life...
It hurt me to see the Japanese in Paris worry about their families at home.
Fortunately my friends' families were safe, but it still hurt to think about the others.

Worried, I sent out e-mails to my friends in Tokyo.

The 50 heroes in Fukushima who were exposed to radiation...

Mothers searching for their children, people searching for their loved ones....
The 9500 people who have died...

You people are so brave....
the dignity...
calm, consideration towards others....

We are witnessing the best of Japanese people.

I think everyone is in accord that they have never seen a country that behaved so beautifully towards people who were there.

(被災地にいる人に対して、あれほど人道的で美しい態度で接することができる国民を見たことがないと誰もが思うでしょう。）

Q: I hear you are planning to take action to aid the stricken ones. What are your ideas?

I am planning a solidarity on April 12 with some artists.
And gave my handbag up for charity and asked EMI to put it online.
And I have been asking people to donate to the red cross.
I'm thinking about the best way to send the money.
I will also be doing a charity concert on May 31 in Paris.
Everybody wants to participate.

From here, transcribed from podcast recording:

(May I ask for a message to the Japanese people?
Some of the stricken ones will be able to hear this through internet radio or community FM.)

Can I say how much we love you,
how much we admire you for the lesson you've given us in Europe and the world in how you have handled this.

I think “LOVE” is the greatest word I can say to you tonight, or rather this morning for you.
If there is anything we can do to help…
If it helps at all to let you know we are thinking about you and have been thinking about you ever since this happened, then know that our thoughts and love and also our admiration. For the people up north, I just hope I can get enough money so that you have things to cover you and keep you warm. But in the meantime, keep yourself warm with LOVE, the love that is coming from everyone here in France and England and everyone who loves you so much and admires you so much.

And the brave heroes, the 50 heroes who are in the nuclear power plant center, we are so astounded by such extraordinary behavior, such courage and your courage.

And what can I say to the people who lost their families, their entire families…
Apart from sending love, affection, and any sweet thoughts that I can give you tonight, or morning for you…

Or from the whole world…I am here with my best friend Gabriel and from London, Paris and all over Europe our greatest, greatest, love… and my love to Sashiko (and a few other names) and my love to all the people I’ve known in any concert, all the people I’ll never get to know…
I would love to come back as soon as possible to be able to sing with you, to be with you.
That would be the greatest privilege to be with you again.

Kabira: Thank you very much Ms. Birkin, for your time and warm message.

B: Thank you, thank YOU for the honor of being able to talk to you. Arigato.

K: Arigatogozaimashita. Thank you very much.

B: Thank you, thank you. Bless you, bless you…

K: And more blessings to you too. Thank you very much and good night.

B: Thank you…

Taro Hakase's Charity Concerts in London

2011-03-24T09:36:00.003+09:00

'KIZUNA' - prayer for Japan - by Valerio Berruti & Ryuichi Sakamoto

2011-03-24T01:05:00.006+09:00

I am stunned by the power of nature, the vastness of the damage and
the feebleness of humanity. I urge us, everyone, to take this as a moment
to recognize our arrogance in thinking that we can control nature.
I send my deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones
in the earthquake and tsunamis.

Ryuichi Sakamoto

ぼくは自然の力の強大さ、被害の甚大さ、
人間のあまりの小ささに呆然としています。
これを機会に自分たちを見つめ直し、
自然をコントロールできるなどという傲りから
目を覚ますことをねがってやみません。
被害にあわれた方たち、
愛する者を失った方たちへ
心からの哀悼の意を表します。

坂本龍一

(from SAKAMOTO.COM)

Japan Society, New York - CONCERT FOR JAPAN

"Maybe We Can Support the People With Songs..." Community

2011-03-22T20:22:00.018+09:00

Different version with singer Satoko Yamano

Count the Stars

Words by: Yasuhiko Kawasaki
Music by: Toshihiko Shinzawa

On a quiet night I looked up at the sky.
I saw a small shooting star go by.
Somewhere you too must be resting your wings,
And looking up at the same sky.

The light of even the smallest star
Is the shine of long ago.
So with hope that your tomorrow will shine,
Count the stars and rest for now.

With hope that your tomorrow will shine,
Count the stars and rest for now.

(translated by flowerbossa)

"This is singer and song writer, Toshihiko Shinzawa.
I have written the lyrics to songs such as “Sekaijuuno Kodomotachiga (Children of the World)” and “Sayonara Bokutachino Yochien (Good bye Our Kindergarten)”.

Ever since the devastating earthquake occurred on March 11, I have been constantly thinking about whether there is something I can do.
And since my job is to write and sing songs, I came to the conclusion “that” is the only thing I CAN do.

In the past too, in times like the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and the Mid Niigata Prefecture Earthquake in 2004, I was active in making songs with people like composer Hirotaka Nakagawa-san and Kuni Kawachi-san, doing concerts, and making CDs etc.

But it crossed my mind that maybe there are people out there that want to do something, but feel they are unable to do anything on their own; people who are being taken over by a whirlwind of emotions and have words that are about to overflow but have no place to express it… all sorts of people.

Ever since I started to go on twitter and mixi (a Japanese SNS), I discovered that I am able to interact with all kinds of people in a much more active way. That’s how I got the idea of getting together to create songs.

I will upload some rough drafts of lyrics which do not have any music yet. I hope someone who sees them will feel free to give it a tune. (Anyone. It doesn’t matter whether you are a pro or an amateur.)

I don’t have any ideas on how I will present them or deliver them yet.
I just thought that it would be nice to have someone provide music to the words, and make them into a new song. I think it’s perfectly okay for a number of people to give them a different tune. I’d be really happy if people will participate freely.

And if there are people who write lyrics, feel free to introduce them here. (Anyone. It doesn’t matter whether you are a pro or an amateur.) Then someone can write music for them too, and it would be nice to see more songs being created.

I have no idea how this is going to help the people who have been affected by the huge earthquake. Maybe it won’t. But I want to have more faith in the power of songs. Well, making songs, that’s the only thing I can do, so that’s what I’m doing.

If we get a lot of songs, maybe we can have an event like a concert where we can all sing together. Maybe we can even go to Tohoku to sing.
Maybe that sounds like a dream, but rather than just watching the news on TV and feeling sad, I wanted to start something…"

Shinzawa-san is a friend of mine from high school.
I feel so happy (and proud^^) that he has started this wonderful community for us - not just for the puropose of supporting the people suffering at the site of the devastated areas, but we too who are relatively far away feel so much more energized by this activity.

May the world be filled with song and music!

p.s. And oh, DO share this with your friends^^
BETTER YET, join the club and send us lyrics for this song!

シンガーソングライターの新沢（シンザワ）としひこと言います。

「世界中のこどもたちが」や「さよならぼくたちのようちえん」などの作詞を手がけています。
３月11日に起きた、未曾有の大地震に、僕も何か出来ることはないだろうか、とずっと考えていました。
僕は歌を作ったり歌ったりすることを仕事としていますので、やはり出来ることはそれしかないだろう、と思いました。
今までも、阪神・淡路大震災の時も、中越大地震の時も、作曲家の中川ひろたかさんやクニ河内さんと歌を作ったり、コンサートをしたり、CDを作って発表してきたりしました。

でも、もしかしたら、何かしたいけれど、なかなか自分だけでは出来ない、と思っている人、いろいろな気持ちが渦巻いて、あふれるように言葉になったりするのだけれど、それは発表の場が無いという人、いろいろな人がいるのではないか？と思いました。

僕も、Twitterやmixiをやるようになって、いろいろな人との交流が以前よりもずっと活発に出来るようになりました。今度は、みんなで歌を作るというのはどうだろう？と、考えました。

つたないものですが、まだ曲のついていない歌詞をいくつかトピックスであげようと思います。
これは見ている誰かが、自由に、好きに曲をつけてくれたらいいな、と思っています。（プロとかアマとか問いません。誰でも）

それをどんな風に発表するとか、どう伝えるとか、まだ何にも考えていません。
ただ、誰かが曲をつけてくれて、新しい歌になっていったらいいな、と思っただけなのです。
いろいろな人が、違う曲をつけてしまっても、良いのではないか、と思っています。自由に参加してもらえたら嬉しいです。

そして歌詞を書く人も、どんどんトピックスであげてもらって、自由に発表して欲しいと思っています。（プロとかアマとか問いません。誰でも）
それを、また誰かが曲をつけたりして、たくさんの歌が出来たら良いな、と思うのです。

それが、東北関東大震災の被害にあった人たちの、何の役に立つのかは全然分かりません。役には立たないかも知れません。でも、歌の力を、僕は、もっと信じたいと思うのです。
まあ、僕は歌しか作れないので、こういうことしか出来ないな、と思って。

歌がいくつも出来たら、みんなで歌うコンサートのイベントが出来るかも知れません。東北に歌いにいくことだって、出来るかもしれません。
それは夢みたいなことかも知れないけど、ただテレビのニュースを見て、悲しい気持ちになっているだけよりも、何か始めたいな、と思ったのでした。

良かったら、参加してください。
歌など自分では作らない人でも、興味があるとか、歌詞だけ読んでみたい、などと思われた方、是非、コミュに参加してください。
また、感想、いろいろアドヴァイスや、新しいアイデアなどもらえると嬉しいです。
(以下省略）

(mixi の「大震災・歌で応援できないかな」コミュニティー」から転載させていただきましたm(_ _）m）

Messages from New York

2011-03-21T21:34:00.002+09:00

Our dear friends in New York, arigato.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart...

Zaccheroni's Samurai Blue will Not Give Up!

2011-03-20T19:15:00.017+09:00

Zaccheroni intends to be back in Japan for charity match
Thursday 17th March, 02:01 AM JST

TOKYO —
Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni intends to return to the quake-hit country in time for a charity match on March 29 in Osaka, Japan Football Association technical director Hiromi Hara said Wednesday. ‘‘We see this charity match as the first activity to support the people in the affected areas,’’ Zaccheroni said in a statement. ‘‘We hope to encourage them even a little bit.’‘

Zaccheroni flew to Italy with his four assistants to reassure their families of their safety, a day after Friday’s devastating earthquake in northeastern Japan.

Japan Today© 2011 Kyodo News

イタリアに一時帰国している日本代表のアルベルト・ザッケローニ監督が、来週中にも日本に戻ることが分かった。同監督は、29日に大阪の長居陸上競技場で開催されるJリーグ選抜とのチャリティーマッチで日本代表の指揮を執る予定となっている。

The coach of Japan's national team spoke to Italy's "Il Resto del Carlino".

I have a strong desire to return to Japan to help the people of Japan through football. That is my job. I am convinced that football can contribute to the recovery of the country.

In the seven months I have known the Japanese, I have remained conquered by their sense of duty, by their spirit of sacrifice, by their dignity.

I am not a hero. They are in anxiety and I am very worried. But I want to help these people.

Former Principal of the Royal Ballet Miyako Yoshida for Tsunami Appeal Concert

2011-03-20T09:56:00.011+09:00

Yoshida passes on her knowledge and experience on "Don Quixote" Act 3 on NHK's "SUPER BALLET LESSON"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOjR9DJo-oU&feature=player_detailpage#t=9s

Taro Hakase's Charity Concert Sold Out! RERUN on 20th 10AM!

2011-03-18T22:25:00.014+09:00

The SOLD OUT concert will streamed live on USTREAM!!

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/openmind-live

http://www.cadoganhall.com/showpage.php?pid=1472

Video Added -Taro Hakase Calls Out For Help on BBC's Thursday Show

2011-03-18T13:54:00.007+09:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/12564921

Taro Hakase and his wife Mayuko Hakase made an appearance on BBC calling out for everyone's understanding and support towards the recent disaster in Japan.

The piece he played is the main theme of the NHK morning drama series "TEPPAN" (composed and performed by Hakase-san himself).

葉加瀬太郎さんと葉加瀬万由子さんがＢＢＣのTHURSDAY SHOW に出演、東日本大震災への援助と協力を呼びかけました。
被災者のみなさんに向けて、ＮＨＫの連続テレビドラマ「てっぱん」のテーマを奏でられました。

Happy Birthday Pallet!

2011-03-18T07:07:00.002+09:00

Thank you for everything...
Please stay happy and healthy always!

Taro Hakase Says DON'T GIVE UP!

2011-03-17T17:18:00.009+09:00

You might even catch him LIVE on BBC!

Upcoming Events

☆　Date: Thursday 17 March, 5:00 pm
Venue: Fortnum & Mason, 181 Picadilly, London

☆　Don't Give Up! A Charity Concert for Japan with Taro Hakase and friends"

Date: Friday, 18th March, 6:45 pm - 8:00 pm
Venue: Cadogan Hall, 5 Sloane Terrace, London

http://japanearthquakereliefconcert.doattend.com/

Message from the Berliner Philharmoniker to the Japanese people

2011-03-17T09:04:00.006+09:00

Japanese violinist Daishin Kashimoto was recently appointed concert master of the orchestra.

Japan Solidarity Concert@ Tonhalle

2011-03-17T01:04:00.012+09:00

Japanese conductor Yutaka Sado will lead the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra in Beethoven's Ninth Symphony

Date: March 26, 2011

http://www.tonhalle.de/Duesseldorfer_Symphoniker_Portrait_engl

http://www.nmz.de/kiz/nachrichten/duesseldorfer-symphoniker-geben-solidaritaetskonzert-fuer-japan

☆　The maestro conducting the annual "Beethoven's Ninth with a Cast of 10000"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lgkeZ0ndMA&feature=player_detailpage#t=46s

SHOW YOUR HEART FUND Launched by GACKT!

2011-03-15T16:28:00.004+09:00

The 2011 off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake which occurred on March11...
Damages of the disaster are spreading without end.
And starting now… they need our help.
We Japanese right now, must first of all help each other.
So I, we, decided to start by doing what we can do and have set up a fund.
Even if it begins from a small determination, with everyone’s power I am convinced that it would grow into something big.
And now, the circle of friends is growing steadily, and we are moving forward together.
All I can say is that I would like to ask for all of your help.
Things we cannot do alone can be accomplished if we work together.
Precisely because we are in such a critical situation, we need to have the courage to lend a helping hand.

SHOW YOUR HEART FUND

There are things we who are living happily should be doing.
We who have the power to take action can support those we care for.
So, let’s start now… by doing what we can!
SHOW YOUR HEART is accepting donations for the victims of the 2011 off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake.

http://static.hangame.co.jp/hangame/extra/showyourheart/index.html

Supporters

Bae Yong Joon (Actor)

Watching the news on the earthquake, all I can do is worry about the safety of the victims of the disaster.

I would like to support the extremely meaningful call by GACKT-san (with whom I had the opportunity to work with in the “Message! To Asia” charity event last December).

I am sure that all of you who are suffering from this disaster are facing a situation that is beyond our imagination, but we would be happy if our thoughts will reach you and help you in some way.

My prayers are with you so that you may live in peace as soon as possible.

SHOW YOUR HEART!!

Kim Hyun Joong (Singer)

Looking at the new of the recent earthquake, I am shocked and extremely worried.

While I was seriously thinking about what I could do to help, I heard about GACKT-san’s wonderful call and strongly wished to join him.

I believe that even though there’s only so much we can do as individuals, we can become a great power if we join hands to help the people who are suffering from this disaster.

SHOW YOUR HEART!!

Taro Hakase Charity Concert in Aid of Japan Earthquake Disaster@LONDON MITSUKOSHI

2011-03-15T08:51:00.005+09:00

Taro Hakase will be holding a charity concert@ Sloane Square Cadogan Hall (London)
Details to be announced!

Power of Music! (video added Mar 15)

2011-03-14T09:50:00.022+09:00

Maestros and Musicians at Work

This is Maestro Seikyo Kim and the Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra rehearsing Bizet’s Carmen Overture and Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 for an outreach concert for elementary school students. (Oct.2010)

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/9667875

Video streaming by Ustream

The maestro after a geneprobe (with their virtuoso concert master Yasunao Ishida in the back^^)

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/8672377

Video streaming by Ustream

On March 12, the Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra was scheduled to perform Mahler’s 6th Symphony. I had the privilege of sitting in on their rehearsal (it is open to anyone!) on the 9th in this very hall.

The maestro had just returned from Europe after a series of successful concerts with the Flanders Symphony Orchestra.

After his first rehearsal with Mahler's 6th, he expressed his satisfaction towards the Kanagawa Philharmonic for being well prepared^^

On the 12th (the day before the performance) I enjoyed listening to the rehearsal live through USTREAM and was excited to see that they were even better than when I heard them 2 days ago. Clearly, they were all set to give a great performance in Yokohama Minato Mirai Hall (very close to where the APEC meetings were held last year) the following day.

It was the two hours later, that the earthquake hit us....

While I was waiting in the dark for my family to come home, I was wondering if they were going to go on with the concert. Unfortunately, I had other plans so I couldn’t go any way, but I really wanted to know how things were.

Later, when we got our electricity back, I read the tweets by the maestro and orchestra staff.

Seikyokim: I haven’t received notice of whether we will be performing tomorrow or not. I’m sure the musicians and the people participating as extras are anxious too. I’m going to bed now believing that we will be on tomorrow. I should give my body and mind a rest.

Awhile later...

Seikyokim: It's no use. Can't sleep.

Kanagawaphil at 9:26 We apologize for the delayed announcement. Our subscription concert will be given as scheduled. As there is major disruption in transport, we hope that you will take all precautions on the way to the concert hall.

Kodaikooyaji (percussionist): Received notice from the orchestra admin. I am on the way to generalprobe. The present situation gives us all the more reason to have our concert. We are professional musicians. Just as there are people at the site of disaster working hard to repair the damage, we will give our all to help heal people’s hearts. 9:35

Retweeted by Seikyokim: Let’s do it! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu! (thank you)

tarohakaseHATS@Seikyokim: Believe in the power of music!

And after the concert…

Seikyokim: There are certain things only musicians can accomplish. I can only hope that I may be of some support for people’s hearts. I will do what I can. One at a time.

We just finished our Mahler No.6 subscription concert. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who came to the concert hall. Thank you very much. I am overwhelmed. I hope our thoughts will reach the people of northern Japan... thank you so much. It was a concert that will remain in my memory forever.

@Seikyokim: Today’s performance which began in a silent prayer and ended in a prayer... Sitting in the silence after the final note, I could not hold back my tears. While giving my prayers for the repose of the souls of the victims of the disaster, the performance gave me great comfort as well, at this time when I am so devastated by what we have been seeing. Thank you very much for a memorable performance. (tweeted by a Kanagawa Phil fan)

After the performance, all the musicians called out for contributions to support the victims of the disaster.

And a day before, on the very day of the earthquake, another maestro had given an extraordinary performance.

British conductor Daniel Harding with the New Japan Philharmonic.

The maestro after the performance:

Just played Mahler 5 for the 50 who made it... Hope the other 1750 are all ok. Wonderful atmosphere on strangest of days.
Would have played just for the 69 year old who walked 4 hours across Tokyo to make it to the concert! That's dedication to music!! 3.11 21:50

---------------------------------------------

Although I was not able to attend neither of these incredible concerts, I too feel energized and comforted by their efforts. Thank you so much!

P.S.
Renowned Japanese musician Taro Hakase will be giving a Charity Concert for Japan's Earthquake @ LONDON MITSUKOSHI

http://japanearthquakereliefconcert.doattend.com/

Thank you everyone! March 13 Sun Update

2011-03-12T08:31:00.004+09:00

March 13, 2011 Sun

Once again thank you all for your kind and thoughtful messages!
Two days have passed and I can only say that I am thankful that my family is safe, but when I see and hear of the sheer magnitude of disaster, it breaks my heart. We still can’t get in touch with some BYJ family, and it is making us very anxious.

But as usual, wuri satovic gives us a wonderful remedy…
(from her ayurveda newsletter, translated with her permission.)

My mother’s hometown is a village on the Sanriku Ria Coast (deeply indented coastline) in Iwate Prefecture, and I cannot get in touch with my dear aunt and uncle. I wish I could fly to them with some warm food but that’s impossible just now.

The only thing we can do at this time is to pray.
Prayer should give us strength. We can pray in any way and in any language but here I would like to bring to you a beautiful Sanskrit mantra.

Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinaha　 May all be happy.
Sarve Santu Niraamayaaha　 May all be free from disabilities.
Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu　 May all look to the good of others
Maa Kaschit Dukhkha bhaakbhavet　 May none suffer from sorrow

すべての人が幸せでありますように
すべての人が健康でありますように
すべての人が他人の善行をみますように
すべての人が悲しみにあいませんように

------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 12, 2011 Sat

Thank you all very much for your warm messages!

Just to let you know my family is fine- yes pallet too!

I exchanged messages with BYJ family Cloud nine, tomato and kiyomi-san last night and they were OKAY too.

I can only hope that the effects of this disaster can be kept to the minimum, and that our BYJ family in the Tohoku area are safe.

I will let you know when I have more news.

Thank you, arigato, merci and kamsahamnida for your concern!!

love,
flowerbossa

P.S. And yes, wuri satovic is fine! Active as usual trying to help those around her!

Maestro Seikyo Kim@Rehearsal Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra

2011-03-11T10:34:00.004+09:00

Mahler Symphony No.6
Final rehearsal before the concert!

Live TV : Ustream

Maestro Seikyo Kim@Rehearsal Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra

2011-03-10T14:06:00.000+09:00

Mahler's Symphony No.6
Concert will be held on March 12 (Sat) at Yokohama Minato Mirai Hall.

Rehearsal scheduled to be broadcasted again on USTREAM tomorrow Mar 11 from 10:30 am Japan time .

Live Streaming by Ustream.TV

Before Spring Arrives..

2011-03-10T10:45:00.012+09:00

R.Sakamoto Playing the Piano from Seoul 20110109 "REPLAY" with Korean Translation

2011-03-09T20:49:00.004+09:00

Streaming live video by Ustream

Leave it to Cyndi♪

2011-03-08T15:09:00.001+09:00

http://news.travel.aol.com/2011/03/07/cyndi-lauper-entertains-airport-passengers-in-argentina/

http://rocketnews24.com/?p=78711

Can't Get Enough!

2011-03-07T08:14:00.004+09:00

Again,bringing you the English rendition by the great diva Lena Park, "The Gold Within"

That Fool♪

2011-03-06T01:09:00.007+09:00

One of the best dramas of all time!
Hwang Jung Min will make you laugh,cry and restore your faith in humanity...
A modern Chaplin...

And the beautiful song (composed by Japanese composer Ryoki Matsumoto) sung by Lena Park adds the perfect spark to the drama!

Another wonderful surprise:
Japanese singer/composer Ayaka Hirahara participated too, by singing the Korean rendition of her song 「感謝　감사」(Gratitude). 　

Original Title:cEnglish: While I Was Looking(That Fool)/aka Accidental Couple
Japanese: アクシデンタル・カップル

UPLIFTING♪

2011-03-01T18:40:00.004+09:00

My favorite girl!
The very talented IU~!
Love her voice!

BYJ　is an Cultural Revolutionist Says Gackt

2011-02-24T07:46:00.025+09:00

Gackt's donation for auction:
His beloved custom red Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
Final bid 6,015,000 yen!

I met BYJ for the first time in this charity event. I thought he was an interesting person. He’s someone who knows his position really well and also very serious.

He came up to me and said something like, “I’m happy to see you. Since I don’t have any free time in during this stay, I hope we can go out to eat or something when I come here in the future.”

I like BYJ. I think his social contribution and accomplishments deserves more recognition.

Just until recently, there was discrimination against Koreans. Discrimination existed toward Japanese Koreans too. That’s just a fact. I have a lot of Korean friends, so I know how things are.

Both the Japanese and Korean government tried to mitigate the deeply rooted prejudice over decades and nothing really worked, but BYJ turned this over in just one year. This is the power of culture. It’s something that government and politics is unable to achieve.

What’s more, it changed the attitude of the people in the age group of 50 to 70 dramatically. All at once, he changed the people’s way of seeing Japanese Koreans, and the Korean people’s position in society changed too.

In a way, he is a revolutionist. A revolutionist of a cultural revolution. He should be more respected for that. That’s what I think.

The aura he emanates is not that of an actor. If anything it’s more in the nature of an artist. He has the qualities and aura close to a rock artist. I felt that the moment I met him.

His aura is suppressed when he is in a suit, but when he came into the Tokyo Dome, he was dressed more casually. He was wearing a long knit coat, with slim pants tucked into boots. That’s when I felt it. He’s a rock artist. I was taken aback, and in a way, I was moved.

(Gackt in his interview for the magazine “Josei Jishin” Dec edition)

Songs Gackt sang at the Hohoemi Event

☆「君のためにできること」

“Kimino tameni dekirukoto” (What I Can Do For You)

☆「12月のラブソング」

“December Love Song”

His message for the event (spoken during his performance):

Everyone, please listen.
Every one of us has the right to have a dream.
Every one of us has the possibility to fulfill that dream.

That is how our future should be, and as one artist, and also as one adult, I came here today to encourage as many children as I can to make it happen.
You all feel the same way right?

For the children walking in the future, let’s do something together, no matter how small!

There are lots of things we can’t do alone.
But with a small chance like today, people like you have come here to start something, right?
Let’s start here!
Let’s start something together!

Gackt in his role as Kenshin Uesugi(a famous warlord in the 16th century)
in the NHK historical drama "Furinkazan 風林火山(Wind,Forest,Fire and Mountain ")

Seikyo Kim on Twitter from Belgium♪

2011-02-22T10:10:00.021+09:00

(photo source: townnews.co.jp Kanagawa Prefecture Yokohama City Midori-ku Edition)

Conductor Seikyo Kim (金聖響、김성향）is presently in Belgium and will begin rehearsing for the February subscription concert of the Flanders Symphony Orchestra. Concerts will be held from February 26 to March 1. He hopes everybody passing through Belgium will join them at the concert hall^^

The program will include, F.Mendelssohn's Symphony No.1, P. Hindemith's Concerto for Orchestra, and J. Brahms's Symphony No.4.

http://www.symfonieorkest.be/conductor.php

2010/11 will be the maestro's first season as Principal Conductor of the Symfonieorkest van Vlaanderen (Flanders Symphony Orchestra) in Bruges, Belgium. One of Japan’s leading young conductors, he will also enter the second season of his tenures as Principal Conductor of the Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra in Yokohama, and Artistic Partner of the Orchestra Ensemble Kanazawa.

Seikyo Kim received high praise from a sellout crowd for his performance of Mahler's Symphony No.5 on Feb 19. Celebrating the centennial of Mahler's death, he will continue with his challenges on the Mahler symphony cycle with the Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra. He asserts that this would be a wonderful opportunity to experience the legacy Gustav Mahler left for us. The conductor's conviction is that by going to live performances and feeling the acoustic pressure, we are better able to perceive the essence of his music. The world of Mahler is not something to be appreciated just by listening to it, but rather by experiencing it.

The Kanagawa Philharmonic offers open rehearsals, so it is a real treat for us to be able to witness the process of music making!

Also, the maestro commented in his blog that he is happy to be able to spend more time with his orchestra in Belgium, and after the performances in Feb~March, he will be performing Berlioz's Symphony Fantastique with them in May. He loves Belgium for its delicious food and gentle people.

(With all that said...)

he confessed in his latest tweet that he was jet lagged and woke up 3 in the morning unable to fall back to sleep...

Seikyo-nim, fighting!!

Happy Birthday Jun Sang!

2011-02-17T08:48:00.004+09:00

The 14th Donation Present from Japan

2011-02-14T19:22:00.007+09:00

LSH Asia Shogakukai Bulletin "BRIDGE" (front cover)

(back cover)

February 14, 2011
The 14th Donation Present from Japan

“The 14th Present” On This Valentine’s Day

Dear Bae Yong Joon-san,

Hello!

On this Valentine’s Day, we the Japanese family would like to give you a gift from our hearts wishing you a speedy recovery.

This year too, instead of sending you chocolates, family from Tokyo, Hokkaido, Akita and Aomori have joined hands and called out to everyone to donate to the LSH Asia Shogakukai (Scholarship Foundation) to support the students who have come from all over Asia to study in Japan.

Your family who found out about this plan, passed the message on to other members of the family, and the word spread throughout Japan like a telephone game.

Needless to say, fans raised the topic on your Japanese official board, as well as on various fan sites and blogs, and it became a much talked about subject among us.

In this way, we collected 294 number of donations, amounting to 1,003,953 yen in total from family members all over Japan, and we were able to contribute to the scholarship foundation under the name “ People Who Love Bae Yong Joon-san”.

We have kept this project alive since 2004, and this will be our 14th present.

Please accept the warm feelings of “LOVE”(사랑 愛) each of us in the family possess in caring for those around us in effort of making them happy.

And we hope that like you Yong Joon-san, many students learning Japanese will spread their wings around Asia, and even further to a bigger world.

And there is one thing we would like to share with you.

On January 26 at the “Gathering Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of Lee Soo Hyun-san’s Death”, we were able to see the flowers you sent on the occasion.

We are most certain that your flowers expressed your feelings of condolence to Lee Soo Hyun-san, as well as your recognition of the scholarship foundation which has lasted for 10 years. And to Lee Soo Hyun-san’s parents who have overcome the many sorrows over the past ten years, your flowers must have given them great comfort and encouragement.

The flowers reminded us of you yourself – noble and gorgeous, yet at the same time pure.

We from the family who attended the event felt your warm feelings the moment we laid eyes on the flowers, and we were moved to tears.

Lee Soo Hyun-san’s parents were also very happy, and looked at the flowers with smiles on their faces.

Lastly, we of course need to tell you about the drama “Dream High” in which you participate in as the creative producer.

Because we the Japanese family are also eager to watch the drama as early as possible, many of us watch it LIVE on the PC. The drama has also starting airing on DATV starting the end of January. From the very first episode, the storyline is so exciting that we look forward to it every week!

We hope that you will recover as soon as possible, and wish that you will appear in the final episode as Director Jung Ha Myung

BUT… whatever you do, don’t push yourself. Please take it easy!
If there is one thing we your family is good at, it is waiting^^
Easy now!

Please be healthy and happy always.

Yours sincerely,
People Who Love Bae Yong Joon-san

In cooperation with: PESASA, YJ creation group ZERO, BYJ Hokkaido Offline Meeting Group, I Love Yon-sama! Fuyuka's Diary

Reported by: MARInet (PESASA)

Translated by: Chunsengyo (Korean), flowerbossa (English)

　－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－－

「14回目の寄付のプレゼント」　バレンタインデーを迎えて

ぺ・ヨンジュンさんへ

バレンタインデーに、ヨンジュンさんが早く快癒されるように願いをこめて、日本の家族から心のプレゼントを贈ります。

今年もチョコレートをお贈りする代わりに、日本の東京、北海道、秋田、青森の家族が協力して寄付の呼びかけをし、アジアからの留学生達を支援する「LSHアジア奨学会（李秀賢顕彰奨学会）」に寄付をしました。

この企画を知った家族が、他の家族に伝えて伝言ゲームの様にどんどんと日本中に広がって行きました。

日本公式サイトの掲示板は勿論のこと、個人のブログやサークルでも取り上げられて、家族同士が互いに教え合い大きな話題になりました。

こうして日本全国の家族から 294 件、1,003,953 円の寄付が集まり
「ペ・ヨンジュンさんを愛する人達」と言う名前でLSHアジア奨学会に届けることが出来ました。

2004年から続けて、今回で14回目のプレゼントになります。

家族一人一人が、自分の周りの人を大切に思い幸せにしたいと願う温かい「愛」を受け取って下さい。

そして、より多くの語学留学生たちが、ヨンジュンさんのように、アジアから、さらに世界に向けて大きく羽ばたいてくれる事を願っています。

そして、一つ、お伝えしたい事があります。

1月26日「イ・スヒョンさんを偲ぶ会 10周忌」の会場で、ヨンジュンさんが贈られた、お花を拝見しました。

スヒョンさんへの哀悼と、10年続いた奨学会への慰労、この10年間様々な悲しみを乗り越えていらっしゃったご両親様へのお慰めと同時に励ましのお花となったことでしょう。

贈られたお花は、高貴で、豪華でありながら清楚で、まるでヨンジュンさんを見ているような気持ちにさせられる素敵なものでした。

参列した私達家族はそのお花を一目見るや、ヨンジュンさんの温かいお気持ちが伝わり、胸が（目頭が）熱くなりました。

ご両親様もとてもお喜びで、笑顔でお花を眺めていらっしゃいました。

最後に、ヨンジュンさんがクリエイティブプロドューサーとして参加されているドラマ、「ドリームハイ」についてもお伝えしないといけないですね。

日本の家族も「ドリームハイ」を一日でも早く見たいと、パソコンで生放送を見ています。そして、1月末からは日本のDATVでも放送が始まりました。
第一話からお話の展開がとても面白く、毎週楽しみに見ています。

ヨンジュンさんが一日も早くお元気になって、ハミョン理事長として最終回にまた登場して下さるのを期待しています。

でも・・・無理だけはなさらず、ゆっくりと治してください。

私達家族は、待つことだけは慣れていますので^^ 　ゆっくり^^ ゆっくり^^

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　ペ・ヨンジュンさんを愛する人達　　2011/2/14

協力：ペササ、北海道オフ会、創作集団 ZERO、ヨン様大好きOL日記、
報告：MARInet
翻訳 : chunsengyo(韓国語)、flowerbossa(英語)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

「14번째의 성금 선물」 바렌타인데이를 맞이하여

배용준씨에게

안녕하세요.

바렌타인데이에 용준씨가 빨리 쾌유되시기를 소원하면서 저희 일본 가족들이 마음의 선물을 드리겠습니다.

올해도 용준씨에게 초콜릿을 드릴 대신에 일본 도쿄（東京）, 홋카이도（北海道）, 아키타（秋田）, 아오모리（青森）의 가족분들이 협력해서 서로 성금의 호소를 하여 아시아에서 온 유학생들을 지원하는「LSH아시아 장학회 (李秀賢顕彰奨学会）」에 기부했습니다.

이 기획을 알게 된 가족분이 더 다른 가족분들에게 전해서 마치 전언게임처럼 잇다라 일본 전국에 퍼져갔습니다.
일본공식의 게시판은 물론 개인의 블로그나 서클에서도 이 기획을 올렸으므로 가족끼리 서로 알리면서 큰 화제가 되었습니다.

이렇게해서 일본 전국의 가족분들로부터 294 건、1,003,953 엔의 기부금이 모여 「배용준씨를 사랑하는 사람들」의 이름으로 「LSH 아시아 장학회」에 드릴 수가 있었습니다.

2004년로부터 계속해서 이번으로 14번째 선물이 됩니다.

가족 한명 한명이 자신의 주변 사람들을 소중하게 여기면서 행복하게 해주고 싶다란 저희들의 따뜻한「사랑　愛」을 받아 주세요.
그리고 보다 많은 어학 유학생들이 용준씨처럼 아시아에서 더 세게로 크게 웅비할 것을 바라고 있습니다.

그리고 한마디 전해주고 싶은 것이 있습니다.
1월26일 「이수현씨의 추모식 10주기」식장에서 용준씨가 보내주신 조화를 봤습니다.

이수현씨에 대한 애도, 10년이 계속해 온 장학회에 대한 위로, 그리고 그 10년 동안에 온갖 슬픔을 극복해오신 부모님에 대한 위안과 동시에 격려가 된 것이죠.

보내주신 꽃다발은 고귀하고 화려하면서도 청초이기에 마치 용준씨를 보고 있는 듯한 생각이 든 멋진 꽃들이었습니다.

참석한 저희 가족들도 그 꽃다발을 한번 보자마자 용준씨의 따뜻한 마음이 전해져 저희들의 눈시울이 찡하고 뜨거워졌습니다.
이수현씨의 부모님께서도 많이 기뻐하시고 웃으시면서 그 꽃다발을 바라보고 계셨습니다.

마지막으로,
용준씨가 크리에이티브*프로듀서로 참가하고 계시는 드라마 「드림하이」에 대해서도 말씀을 드려야지요^^

일본 가족분들도 드라마「드림하이」를 하루라도 빨리 보고싶어 하여, PC에서 생방송을 보고있어요. 그리고 1월말부터는 일본 DATV에서도 방송이 시작되었어요.
제1화로부터 얘기 전개가 매우 재미있고 매주 기대하면서 보고있어요.
용준씨가 하루 빨리 회복하셔서 정하명이사장님으로 마지막회에 다시 등장해주시기를 기대하고 있습니다.

하지만 ,,,,,무리는 하지마시고 , 천천히 고쳐주세요
저희 가족은 기다리는 것만은 습관이 되고 있으니까요^^ 천천히^^ 천천히^^

항상 건강하시고 행복하세요.

　　　　　「배용준씨를 사랑하는 사람들」올림 2011/2/14

협력: 배사사, BYJ홋카이도 OFF 모임, YJ창작 집단 ZERO, 욘사마 정말 좋아! 후유카의 일기
보고：배사사・ MARInet
번역 : chunsengyo(한국어)　 flowerbossa(영어)

(Originally posted on Bae Yong Joon's Korean Official Board on February 14, 2011)

Herb and Dorothy Talk Through Skype at Aoyama Gakuin University

2011-02-14T09:41:00.004+09:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

The movie "Herb & Dorothy" has become a big hit in Japan.
Just by coincidence, I saw this wonderful movie on November 22 last year.

November 22 in Japan is known by some as "Good Married Couple Day" -
because the numbers 1122 can be pronunced "Ii fufu (a good married couple).

On this day, Herb and Dorothy participated in an interactive LIVE talk show held at Aoyama Gakuin University located near the movie theater. Through a skype connection, the couple talked about their encounter with director Megumi Sasaki (who served as the MC/interpreter of the show), how the movie became a reality, art, AND their ideas on "a good married couple" etc.

(They appear in the video around 9 minutes 22 seconds.)

With a special appearance by their cat Archie!

Director Megumi Sasaki
(photo source: Yomiuri Online)

Herb and Dorothy, WE LOVE YOU!

Yon-Yon (Yong Joon) Magic!

2011-02-10T19:28:00.009+09:00

(photo courtesy of cranberry)

Lee Soo Hyun-ssi's abonim and omonim shines meeting ICHIMUJIN's Udaka-san after the Charity Concert on January 28^^

AND the biggest miracle of the evening ...

The total amount of donations from this concert came to:

524,439 yen

Look at the numbers of the last 4 digits closely...

4 4 3 9

Japanese family often affectionately refers to Yong Joon-ssi as "Yon Yon"...
and "3 9" is pronounced "San Q"... the way Japanese pronunce Thank You ...

Yon-Yon thank you!

Kamsahamnida for bringing us together, to bring about this miracle!

Togetherness and Warmth

2011-02-07T22:17:00.010+09:00

Charity Concert
Guitar: Ichimujin いちむじん
Ehru : WeiWei Wuu　巫謝慧
　
January 28, 2011 (Fri) 19:00 @Yotsuya Kumin Hall

(photos courtesy of cranberry)

Satovic helping out at the Lee Soo Hyun-ssi's corner.

It was a wonderful evening where the artists and audience were bond with love and togetherness.

Hard as it was to believe, Ichimujin and WeiWei Wuu had collaborated only once before in the past. Their respective performances brought out the best in each other, in all of the works which were very unique in their styles.

WeiWei Wuu-san even offered an crash course on how to play the ehru.
On stage, Yasuhito Udaka-san and Shunsuke Yamashita-san of ICHIMUJIN were her students, who both claimed it was their first time to touch the ehru. They proved to be very promising performers on the ehru, as much as on the guitar (Ms. Wuu mentioned that it was difficult even to make a decent sound at first)^^

The guitar duo ICHIMUJIN has become exteremely famous after their music "Ryomaden Kiko Theme" was used in the popular historical drama "Ryomaden". "Ryomaden" has started airing in Korea starting this January. ICHIMUJIN is eager to take on further challenges, and is planning to perform in the U.S. this year.

Ichimujin playing one of their signature pieces "Yosakoi Variation" @ Cape Muroto (Kochi Prefecture, their homeland)

WeiWEi Wuu celebrates her 20th anniversary in Japan. She shared her memories with us of the day she arrived in Tokyo as a student - she was so lonely that she could not bear to stay in her apartment alone. So, she spent time in front of the liveliest place she could find in her neighborhood - which turned out to be a pachinko parlor! She expressed her feelings of support to the students from abroad who were part of the audience, wishing them the best of luck.

WeiWei Wuu collaborates with Japanese musicians on Chick Corea's masterpiece "Spain"

Ichimujin-san and WeiWei Wuu-san, arigato and 謝謝 for your heartfelt performances!

I would also like to thank cranberry-san and the wonderful staff who organized this concert.

Kamsahamnida to Lee Soo Hyun-ssi's abonim and omonim for being with us at this meaningful event.
이수현씨의 아버님, 어머님,
콘서트를 함께 들을 수 있어서 정말 기뻤습니다. 감사합니다.

And most of all, thank you Lee Soo Hyun-ssi - we felt your love and presence in the audience.

You are far from forgotten, and we shall see to it that you never will be.

For information on LSH Asia Shogakukai contact:

lsh-asia-shogakukai@isis.ocn.ne.jp

(Special thanks to chunsengyo-ssi for your help on the translation^^)

Profiles

2011-02-07T18:03:00.020+09:00

A Promising and Charming Guitarist

2011-02-03T09:20:00.008+09:00

I was lucky to catch this promising guitarist on the FM radio this morning.
A great way to start the lunar new year!

Classical Guitarist
Kyu-Hee Park (박규희 / 朴葵姫)

Kyu-Hee Park appeared in the "Morning Lounge" section on J-Wave's "Tokyo Morning Radio" .
Her live performance of Francisco Tarrega's "Recuerdos dela Alhambra" was most inspiring.

@ the J-Wave studio with navigator Sean K (source J-wave)

She explained that "Sueno" means "dream"

Born in Incheon city, Kyu-Hee Park started to study guitar when she was 3 years old. She won the first prize in “youth” of the National Korean Guitar Competition when she was 9 , and in 2004, she started to study in the Tokyo College of Music. She was taught by Shin-ichi Fukuda and Kiyoshi Syomura who are leading Japanese classical guitarists. She participated in an opera-tour which was conducted by Maestro Seiji Ozawa.She is also a recipient of many international guitar competitions, such as the 2008 Printemps de la Guitare international competition 1st prize (She was the first female as well as the first Asian guitarist to win 1st prize), 2009 Ligita international guitar competition (1st prize), and the 2010 Agustin Barrios International Guitar Competition 1st prize.

She took part in the “Guitar Festa” in Hakuju Hall, Tokyo, 2009 which was a big success. Her highly acclaimed first CD in Japan (July, 2010) “Sueno” sold extraordinarily well as a CD for classical guitar. She has been studying in Vienna Music University with Alvaro Pierri.

(soure:official profile from her agency)

The young artist's current dream is to collaborate with Maestro Seiji Ozawa as a soloist.

새해 복 많이 받으세요!

Happy Lunar New Year!

Omedeto! Nippon!

2011-01-31T07:50:00.003+09:00

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011
January 29, 2011 -Final Match

Japan vs Australia

Omedeto! Congratulations ! Chukahamnida Lee Tadanari!

Arigato for the inspiration!

MARInet's Report on the Gathering Commemorating Lee Soo Hyun-ssi

2011-01-28T12:17:00.009+09:00

From the PESASA Site
2011/01/27
Written by MARInet
(translated by flowerbossa)

On January 26, I participated in the “Gathering Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of Lee Soo Hyun’s Death" with members of PESASA.

As 10 years is a significant anniversary, I and the staff of PESASA went to Shin Okubo Station first to pay our respects to the plaque honoring Lee Soo Hyun-san and Shiro Sekine-san.

NHK and KBS were there to film the flowers.

From 16:00～17:50, a gathering to commemorate LSH-ssi with a speech by his father Lee Sung Dae-ssi was held at Shufu Kaikan Plaza-f.

Photos of LSH-ssi from early as his childhood were shown on screen as his father talked about the memories of his son. Many in the audience were brought to tears moved by Lee Sung Dae-ssi’s warm heart.

During 18:00～20:00, the guests interacted with one another and also paid floral tribute to LSH-ssi.

At the gathering, there was a flower basket from Bae Yong Joon-san.

The staff of LSH Asia Shogakukai (scholarship) said that he had not sent them as “Bae Yong Joon” of KEYEAST or DA, but as a personal gesture. We were also told that if his physical condition had been better, he was planning to send a message as well. We had heard that Yong Joon-san was aware of the fund raising activities honoring LSH-ssi, but we were finally able to confirm this belief and it made us very happy.

LSH-ssi’s parents left the room for awhile to go to Shin Okubo Station at 19:15 to offer flowers at the site of the incident. During this time, the students from Asia sang a song which conveyed their feelings towards LSH-ssi.

Korean actor Lee Tae Sung-ssi (이태성　イ・テソン) who starred in the movie “26 Years Diary” "당신을 잊지 않겠다" 「あなたを忘れない」）and had come from Korea for this gathering gave a speech as well.

Thirteen members participated from PESASA.
Together we gathered around LSH-ssi’s parents and were able to chat with them.

The two of them gave us a warm smile when they saw us, and his father in particular clapped his hands showing his delight in seeing us again. His mother’s smile always charges us with “the power to live”.

We expressed our thoughts on Lee Sung Dae-ssi’s speech etc., and through our broken Korean and Japanese, we were able to have an intimate conversation with them which made us feel very warm inside.

We were sad for not being able to promise them that we would see each other next year like we do every year (because this was to be the last commemoration gathering), but because they were to come to the charity concert on the 28th 　（「アジアの風になって」）、they told us happily that they looked forward to seeing us again in 2 days.

At the end of the event, the participants of PESASA had the pleasure of taking photos with LSH-ssi's parents in front of Bae Yong Joon-ssi’s flowers.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to all the people who had participated in the events commemorating Lee Soo Hyun-ssi from 2005.

BYJ-ssi Commemorates the Anniversary of Lee Soon Hyun-ssi's Death

2011-01-27T16:19:00.007+09:00

Bae Yong Joon-ssi sent flowers to the gathering commemorating the 10th anniversary of Lee Soo Hyun-ssi's death.

배용준씨가 故이수현씨의 10주기를 추모하셔서 조화를 보내주셨습니다.

(translation by chunsengyo-ssi)

We Shall Not Forget

2011-01-26T16:25:00.003+09:00

In Memory of Lee Soo Hyun-ssi

From the NEWS COMMENTATORS BUREAU of
NHK's program "Konnichiwa from Studio Park"

Charts by NHK
(English translation by flowerbossa)

A Performance by a Living Legend

2011-01-24T10:20:00.019+09:00

A Special Performance by Tamasaburo Bando
with an appearance by Shido Nakamura
at Le Theatre GINZA

ル・テアトル銀座　
坂東玉三郎特別公演
中村獅童　出演

January 6, 2011

The guests are greeted by Tamasaburo as the elevator opens at the floor of the theater

(=a giant panel of him ^^).

Lobby decorated with ornaments.

Program

1. Dan no Ura Kabuto Gunki - Akoya
壇浦兜軍記阿古屋

Authors Matsuda Bunkôdô
Hasegawa Senshi

History: The play "Dan no Ura Kabuto Gunki" was originally written for the puppet theater (Bunraku) and staged for the first time in September 1732 in Ôsaka at the Takemotoza. It was adapted to Kabuki the same month, in Kyôto at Miyako Mandayû's theater. It was staged in Ôsaka for the first time in March 1733, at the Kado no Shibai [casting]. It was staged in Edo for the first time in November 1737, at the Kawarazakiza under the title "Uruoizuki Ninin Kagekiyo" [casting]. Only one scene survived, the "koto torture" scene, and the role of Akoya was reserved to the elite of onnagata actors, able to play the traditional instruments of music. From 1950 to 1980, only the star Nakamura Utaemon VI was able to perform this role. The drama "Dan no Ura Kabuto Gunki" was revived as a tôshi kyôgen at the National Theatre in January 1997, with Bandô Tamasaburô performing the role of Akoya for the first time.
Structure The play "Dan no Ura Kabuto Gunki" was in 5 acts. The "koto torture" scene, commonly called "Akoya", was the third act.

Summary

The drama opens in the law court of Horikawa. The rebel Akushichibyôe Kagekiyo, who was captured after his defeat, successfully ran away. Chichibu no Shôji Shigetada is in charge of discovering Kagekiyo's hiding place. The only way to learn about Kagekiyo's whereabouts is to question Kagekiyo's lover, the courtesan Akoya, who is brought to the court under the escort of Hanzawa Rokurô and some soldiers. She says that she has no idea where her lover is. Iwanaga Saemon Munetsura, an akattsura villain performed in the ningyôburi style, who assists Shigetada in his mission, would like to send her to his palace and physically torture her there. Shigetada rebukes him and reminds him that he is the one to lead the mission. Then, he asks Rokurô to bring the instruments he intends to use to question Akoya. Iwanaga takes this request as an opportunity to summon a large group of torturers, who come on stage holding various instruments of torture and performing their role in the comical takeda yakko style. Shigetada order them to leave the palace and Rokurô is back with 3 instruments of ... music: a shamisen, a koto and a kokyû. Akoya is ordered to plays these instruments. She reluctantly accepts and starts with the koto. Her song is about the love she feels for Kagekiyo. After the koto, she plays the shamisen and ends with the kokyû. Her performance is perfect. Even Iwanaga is under the spell of Akoya's music and his hands simulate the playing of an instrument. The true feelings and worries that Akoya expressed in her songs are the definitive proof that Shigetada was looking for: Akoya does not know for sure where her lover is hidden. A liar would not be able to create such a pure music. Shigetada orders the release of Akoya and holds back with his sword the villain Iwanaga, who unsheathes his sword for the final pose.

Akoya is considered a particularly difficult reperotoire as the "onnagata" playing the title role is not only required to display her virtuosity on all three instruments, but to express the inner emotions of the character. Tamasaburo is considered the only onnagata capable of giving the ideal peformance of this role today.

Tamasaburo playing Akoya in 1997 at Kokuritsu Gekijo (National Theater).

2. Onnadate
女伊達

As the title indicates, the principle character in the dance is a spirited female (onna) version of the OTOKODATE, the "chivalrous commoner" or "street knight" who, as a self-appointed representative of the common poeple and equipped with a sharp tongue, a fiery temper and a penchant for extravagant bravura be habit , strenuously opposed the gang of unemployed warriors who roamed the streets of Edo intimidating the populace. A rival of her male counterpart, she seeks to outswagger him as best she can but not at the expense of her feminine allure. A brisk and colorful dance, it is important as the original of the more famous "Sukeroku".

(summaries credited to KABUKI 21 and Senwaka-Kai)

Dancing his Signature dance "Sagimusume" or "Heron Maiden"

The Director

2011-01-19T09:40:00.005+09:00

Yon Koma Comic "DREAM HIGH"

2011-01-17T22:22:00.006+09:00

From the PESASA site Jan.16, 2011
Creator : saita4

translator: flowerbossa

The Given Role

Remember Lee Soo Hyun-san's Courage

2011-01-15T11:20:00.016+09:00

Organizer of the concert, Cranberry-san (left) and PESASA's MARInet-san

From Tokyo Shimbun Jan. 8, 2011 (Sat) Edition
東京新聞　2011年1月8日(土）

Remember Lee-san’s Courage

思い出して李さんの勇気

“Accident at Shin- Okubo Station”
Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the Death of the Korean Young Man

Yon-sama’s Fans and Others Organize a Concert to be Held On Jan. 28th in Support of Asian Students in Japan

Commemorating the death of a young Korean man who died from trying to save a man who fell down on the tracks at Shin-Okubo Station, a group of people including housewives who are fans of Hallyu star Yon-sama (Bae Yong Joon) will hold a charity concert at Yotsuya Kumin Hall (Naito-cho, Shinjuku-ku) supporting the Asian students studying in Japan. They claim that they were inspired by Yon-sama’s activities as a philanthropist.

Reported by: Yuko Muramatsu
(translated by flowerbossa)

On January 26, 2001, a young Korean man studying in Japan named Lee Soo Hyun (then 26) jumped down on the railway tracks along with a Japanese cameraman trying to save a Japanese man who had accidentally fallen off the platform. All of them died. The following year, with contributions such as the solatium from his parents, a scholarship was established to support the Asian students studying in Japan.

The organizer of the charity concert, Cranberry-san of Suginami-ku was influenced by Yon-sama’s activities such as his act of supporting children in need. Ever since 2004, she called out to his fans on his birthday (August) and Valentine’s Day (February) and collected donations for the scholarship. On occasions such as the anniversary of Lee-san’s death, she met with his parents, and was deeply moved by how they kept active that their son shall not have died in vain and the condition of their minds when they spoke, “he (our son) did not do anything special”.

“We have continued our activities all this time, but the world has already forgotten this incident. We would like for everyone to recall Lee-san’s courageous conduct once more,” says Cranberry-san. Being a member of the nonprofit organization which manages the scholarship, she is well aware of the difficulties of securing funds. Commemorating the 10th anniversary of his death, she planned the concert with the hope of “keeping the scholarship which was born as a result of Lee-san’s conduct alive”.

Appearing in the concert are, the classical guitar duo Ichimujin - a duo of two musicians who are presently 26 years old, the same age as Lee-san at the time of his death- and Wei Wei Wuu, a ehru player from China who has being active in Japan for many years.

Cranberry-san says that “being a mother of two sons myself, I learned many things from Lee-san’s mother. I wanted to do what I could do. I want everyone in the world to become aware of Lee-san’s courage”.

The concert starts from 7 p.m.
Advanced tickets 3000 yen
(At the door 3500 yen)

Contact: Organization committee
03-5370-4322

---------------------------------------------

Korean translation and the original article as posted on Bae Yong Joon's Official Board on January 17 by PESASA's MARInet:

【번역】일본 도쿄신문 2011년1월8일 기사
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
번역 chunsengyo

【도쿄】　
신오쿠보역 사고 한국청년 10주기, 이수형씨의 용기 상기해줘요
유학생지원곤서트기획 2011년1월8일

일본 ＪＲ신오쿠보 역에서 선로위에 추락한 사람을 구하려고 사망한 한국 청년의 10주기를 기념해서, 한류스터 욘사마 (배용준）팬의 주부들이1월28일에 아시아에세 일본으로 공부하러 온 유학생들을 지원하는 채리티 콘서트를 요츠야 구민 홀（신쥬쿠 구 나이토우 쵸 ）에서 열린다. 자선 활동가이기도 한 욘사마의 활동에 촉발되었다고 한다.
（마츠무라 유코 보고）

　2001년1월26일 유학생 이수현씨＝당시（26）는 실수하여 홈에 떨어진 일본인 남성을 구하려고 일본인 사진작가와 함께 선로에 뛰어들어 두리 다 사망했다. 그 다음해 이수현씨의 부모님께서 기부하신 위문금등으로 아시아 유학생을 지원하는 장학금이 창설되었다.
　채리티 콘서트 실행위원장인 도쿄 스기나미 구의 주부cranberry씨는 가난한 아이들을 지원하고 있는 욘사마(배용준）의 활동으로부터 영향을 받고 2004년 이후 욘사마의 생일（8월）과 발렌타인 데이（2월）에 그의 팬 친구들에게 호소하여 이 장학금에 기부해왔다. 이수현씨의 기일에는 부모님을 만나면서 그의 죽음을 헛되게 하지 않기 위해 활동하시는 모습, 「(아들이) 당연한 일을 했을 뿐」이라고 말씀하시는 그 마음 가짐에 감명을 받았다고 한다.
「저희들은 성금 활동을 계속하고 있지만 세상은 잊어버리고 있다. 다시 한번 이수현씨의 용기있는 행동을 상기해주었으면 좋겠다」 고 한다. 장학금을 운영하는 ＮＰＯ법인의 회원도 되고 자금확보의 어려움도 알게 되면서 10주기를 계기로 「이수현씨의 행동의 결과로서 만들어진 장학금을 오래 존속시키고 싶다」고 콘서트를 계획했다.
이수현씨가 죽었을 때와 나이가 같은 26살의 클래식 기타 듀오 이치무진, 일본에서 오래동안 활약하고 있는 중국 출신의 이호（二胡）연주자 巫謝慧(WEIWEI WUU)씨가 출연한다.
cranberry씨는 「아들이 있는 어머니로서 이수현씨의 어머님으로부터 많는 것을 배웠다. 뭔가 자신이 할 수 있는 걸 하고 싶었다. 이수현씨의 용기를 이 세상 모든 사람들에게 알리고 싶다」

콘서트는 오후 7시부터. 예매 3천엔（당일 3천5백엔）
문의는 실행위원회=전화 03(5370)4322=
　　　　　　　　 =이메일 주소 asianwind2011@yahoo.co.jp=
콘서트 안내 사이트: http://asianwind2011.blog25.fc2.com/

翻訳：日本、東京新聞 2011年1月8日記事

【東京】
ＪＲ新大久保駅で線路に落ちた人を助けようとして亡くなった韓国青年の十周忌で、韓流スター・ヨン様（ペ・ヨンジュン）ファンの主婦らが二十八日、アジアからの留学生を支援するチャリティーコンサートを四谷区民ホール（新宿区内藤町）で開く。慈善活動家のヨン様の活動に触発されたのだという。（記者：松村裕子）

　二〇〇一年一月二十六日、留学生の李秀賢（イスヒョン）さん＝当時（２６）＝は、誤ってホームに転落した日本人男性を救おうと、日本人カメラマンとともに線路に下り、ともに亡くなった。翌年、両親が寄付した見舞金などで、アジア留学生を支援する奨学金が創設された。

　実行委員長の杉並区のcranberryさんは、貧しい子どもたちの支援などをしているヨン様の活動に影響を受け、〇四年以降、ヨン様の誕生日（八月）とバレンタインデー（二月）に、ファン仲間に呼び掛けて、この奨学金への寄付をしてきた。李さんの命日などでは両親に会い、李さんの死を無駄にしないために活動する姿、「（息子は）当たり前のことをした」と話す心の持ちように感銘を受けたという。

　「私たちは活動を続けていても世の中は忘れている。もう一度、李さんの勇気ある行動を思い出してほしい」と話す。
奨学金を運営するＮＰＯ法人の会員にもなり、資金確保の難しさも知る中で、十周忌を機に「李さんの行動の結果生まれた奨学金を長く存続させたい」とコンサートを計画した。

　李さんが亡くなったときと同じ二十六歳のクラシックギターデュオ・いちむじんと、中国出身で日本で長く活躍する二胡（にこ）奏者ウェイウェイ・ウーさんが出演する。

　cranberryさんは「息子を持つ母親としても、李さんのお母さまに勉強させてもらった。何か自分にできることをしたいと思った。李さんの勇気を世の中のすべての人に伝えたい」と話す。

　コンサートは午後七時から。前売り3,000円（当日3,500円）。
問い合わせは実行委員会＝電話０３（５３７０）４３２２＝へ。
　　　　　　　　　　　　＝メールアドレス asianwind2011@yahoo.co.jp ＝
　コンサート案内サイト　 http://asianwind2011.blog25.fc2.com/

The Yomiuri Shimbun also introduced the memorial event to be held on Jan. 26 commemorating the death of Lee Soo Hyun-ssi.

For more on Lee Soo Hyun and BYJ fans' activities read:

The World's Still Beautiful

by happiebb

Director Hanadou's entry in his blog (director of the film "26 Years Diary" includes a Korean translation by suehan)

"COMPASSION" Director Hanadou's blog on the filming of "26 Years Diary"

At the Audition

2011-01-13T09:45:00.002+09:00

101225 Dream High Team & Sumi Jo - Christmas Song

2011-01-11T15:14:00.004+09:00

World renowned lyric soprano 조 수미（チョ・スミ/スミ・ジョー) 　in harmony with the Dream High Team!
Kamsahamnida!!

The diva makes a cameo appearance in the drama.

PARTY TIME for the skmtSocial project Team!

2011-01-10T13:51:00.007+09:00

Otsukaresama deshita!
Arigato, kamsahamnida and thank you to Sakamoto-san and all staff who supported the project. It was a wonderful experience!

Watch Ryuichi Sakamoto LIVE from Seoul!

2011-01-08T16:01:00.009+09:00

류이치 사카모토 '플레잉 더 피아노 코리아 2011'

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Playing the Piano from Seoul 2011

Performance: Jan 9, 2011 (Sun) 16:00 ~, 20:00~ (2 performances)

Korea and Japan Time

Place: Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall (Korea)

Available Live on Ustream!

In His Favorite Cardigan!

2011-01-07T22:15:00.003+09:00

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T17:17:00.005+09:00

Yon-koma Comic "A Request from the Security Guards"

2010-12-31T10:14:00.006+09:00

From the site of BYJ and LSH Supporters in Japan (aka PESASA)

Dec. 27, 2010

Created by saita4

translated by flowerbossa

A Request to All Family Members

When we went to see Yong Joon-san, we were told by the security guards...
No running!

No pushing!

No kissing!

Hey, you weren't told that!

In Three Versions at last!

2010-12-30T18:25:00.006+09:00

A Journey in Search of Korea's Beauty by Bae Yong Joon
한국의 아름다움을 찾아 떠난 여행
韓国の美をたどる旅

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T16:32:00.004+09:00

Photo Session Report by PESASA's MARInet

2010-12-20T17:51:00.016+09:00

MARInet of PESASA was one of the lucky kajoku who participated in the photo session!

She shared her wonderful experience with us on the PESASA site.

Arigato MARInet-san!

From the site of BYJ and LSH Supporters in Japan (aka PESASA)

Dec. 20, 2010

translated by flowerbossa

A photo session was held at JCB Hall (in Tokyo Dome City) from 4 p.m.

Aside from the press, 650 people from the public who were chosen in a drawing were invited.

I was on the 3rd floor in the 6th row of of the second balcony (second row from the back).

It was too far from the stage for an amateur to take photos with a digital camera.

So, it was more like an event for watching a photo session for the press, rather than one for taking photos for ourselves.

In the arena of the ground floor, there were camera crews from magazines and television stations. We were seated on the first balcony of the second floor and the second balcony of the third floor.

The artists appeared on stage one by one, and after a brief message, photos were taken immediately. First facing the right side, than the center, and finally on the left. This set was repeated twice - once for photographs and the other for footage.

After all of the participants came out, Yong Joon-san came out at 4:35 p.m. as the last artist.

The fans were in a frenzy letting out what seemed like screams welcoming him.

Yong Joon-san gave a brief greeting, but my heart was pounding and I was so flustered that I don't remember what he said (>_<)

Yong Joon-san's message:

"Hello. I am Bae Yong Joon. I hope this event will serve as a meaningful start that will enable the children of Asia to smile with hope. "

The photo session began from the invited crowd , and after the hall became just bit brighter, we were allowed just 2 minutes to take photos.

At 4:36 the MC of DATV said to YJ-san that the kajoku are on the 2nd and 3rd floor so please look up, but even with a 15x digital camera, I could not capture him well. Because he would not look up to the 3rd floor, I was not able to get his face clearly.

There were some people who seemed like professionals equipped with great cameras and tripods, and on the other end there were people who gave up on taking pictures all together and just watched. There were also many fans for artists other than Yong Joon-san.

I must say that taking photos of someone you like is an impossible task, because both your heart and hands shake from excitement(>_<)

..... (omit) I am sorry that these photos are so blurry, but I hope I was able to convey the atmosphere.

Later, there was a session for the press, and in the end Yong Joon-san made a cute gesture by raising both of his arms in the air.

At 4:40, YJ-san waved to us, and after giving a very courteous bow he disappeared into the wings.

At 4:41, all of the participants lined up on stage, and again posing for photos turning right, center, left (2 sets), the session came to a close at 4:45.

PESASA Sisters Capture BYJ-ssi @ Haneda

2010-12-20T17:36:00.007+09:00

Lifted from the site of BYJ & LSH Supporters in Japan (aka PESASA)
Arigato, PESASA sisters^^

2010 Hohoemi (SMILE) Project@Tokyo Dome

2010-12-15T23:06:00.018+09:00

Message! To Asia

Hohoemi (SMILE) Project
미소 프로젝트@ 도쿄돔

Dec.14, 2010 at Tokyo Dome

Main Participants

But FIRST a lunch with PESASA sisters♪

Card courtesy of Tomochang. Arigato Tomochang^^

PESASA Chocolates!
Front and back

Entrance of the TOKYO DOME

A Few of My Favorite Thingsヽ(^-^ )/

Bae Yong Joon

Hwanhee

환희

"Even Though My Heart Breaks"
(Main Theme of the drama "Fashion 70's)

Surprise!

Football Philanthropist Hidetoshi Nakata

He's here!

2010-12-13T17:47:00.002+09:00

Dong Hyuk

2010-11-24T22:33:00.004+09:00

A Concert to Look Forward To

2010-11-16T10:16:00.013+09:00

A Charity Concert in support of the LSH (Lee Soo Hyun) Asia Scholarship.

(This concert has been organized by B.S.J. member Cranberry!)

"Asian Winds"

Featuring:

Ichimujin (Classical guitar duo)

WeiWei Wuu (Chinese violin "erhu" player)

Ichimujin is recently known for its BGM in the popular NHK history drama "RYOMADEN"

WeiWei Woo is featured in the music for the popular drama "JIN".

Music by Ichimujin

Music by WeiWei Woo

チャリティーコンサート　
～アジアの風になって～

アジアを吹き抜ける風のように熱く、そして　やさしく　
二本のギターが奏でる音色と二胡の調べ
　

クラシックギターデュオ　いちむじん
二胡奏者　ウェイウェイ・ウー（中国）
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
♪演奏予定曲♪　
　　　
いちむじん『龍馬伝』（紀行～いちむじんバージョン）
　　　　　　　『かけら』（ミサワホームCM曲）　他
ウェイウェイ・ウー
　　　　　　　　『JIN-仁-Main Title』
　　　　　　　　『Voyagers』（NHK「ダーウィンが来た！～生き物新伝説」
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　エンディングテーマ曲）他

・演奏曲は変更になる場合がございます

あれから10年...
2001年1月26日JR新大久保駅のホームに転落した日本人を助けるために命を落とした韓国青年イ・スヒョンさん、２６歳。その勇気をたたえ、そして彼の夢だった日本との架け橋として、アジアから来て学ぶ日本語学校生たちのために...。
このコンサートの収益の一部をNPO法人エルエスエイチアジア奨学会に寄付いたします。

◆日時／　2011年　1月　28日（金）１８：３０開場　１９：００開演
Date: Jan. 28, 2011

◆出演／クラシックギターデュオ　いちむじん
二胡奏者ウェイウェイ・ウー（中国）

◆会場／　四谷区民ホール（四谷区民センター９階）
　東京メトロ　丸の内線「新宿御苑前」駅より徒歩5分
　都バス　品９７新宿駅西口～品川車庫
　「新宿一丁目」バス停より徒歩1分
　（駐車場はございませんので公共の交通機関をご利用ください）

◆チケット　発売中
　全席自由　　前売り券　3000円　　当日券　3500円

◆ご予約/お問合わせ／　 asianwind2011@yahoo.co.jp
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　03-5370-4322（留守電受付）

※クロサワ楽器（新大久保店２F）でも店頭販売をしております。
　　　　
◆主催：LSHチャリティーコンサート実行委員会

◆後援：新宿区
　NPO法人エルエスエイチアジア奨学会
　日本語学校ネットワーク
◆協賛：クロサワ楽器

※コンサート内容の一部及び曲目が変更になる場合がございますがご了承ください。

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
　　　　　
《アーティスト情報》

【いちむじん】

高知県出身の「宇高靖人＆山下俊輔」による新世代クラシックギターデュオ。
2004年に結成し、現在は東京を拠点に全国各地のホールやライブハウスでのコンサート及びイベント出演するなど、積極的に音楽活動をしている。彼らはCDやコンサートの中で、ポピュラー、映画音楽、オリジナル曲など発表し続けており、クラシックの枠にとどまらないのびのびとしたギター・サウンドで人々の心を魅了している。ステージでは、その繊細で感傷的な表現力と、研ぎ澄まされたスピード感溢れる演奏で好評です
ユニット名の“いちむじん”とは、高知の古い言葉で“一生懸命”という意味。

≪　主な参加作品　≫
・映画「沈まぬ太陽」全国東宝系劇場公開　（原作＝山崎豊子）
・NHK大河ドラマ「龍馬伝」／龍馬伝紀行のBGM
・ミサワホームCM曲「かけら」作曲・演奏
・２０１０年９月　４th　Album　『TOMA』発売

宇高靖人（Yasuhito　Udaka）【写真：左】
高知県立岡豊高等学校卒業。
第26回GLC学生ギターコンクール全国大会高校生の部第三位入賞。
桐朋学園大学短期大学部卒業。
NHKテレビ「ローマ帝国」の番組音楽の録音に於いて、NHK交響楽団と共演。
ギターを佐藤紀雄、松居孝行の両氏に師事。佐々木忠、トーマスミュラー・ペリング、ウーゴ・へレールのマスタークラスを受講。

山下俊輔　（Shunsuke Yamashita）【写真：右】
高知県立岡豊高等学校卒業。
2001年日本ギターコンクール高校生の部銅賞。
桐朋学園大学短期大学部卒業。桐朋学園芸術短期大学専攻科修了。
ギターを佐藤紀雄、松居孝行、ステファノ・グロンドーナ、アンドレ・ディエチに師事。佐々木忠、トーマスミュラー・ペリング、パブロ・マルケスのマスタークラスを受講。

【ウェイウェイ・ウー】WeiWei Wuu

中国／上海生まれ。５歳からヴァイオリンをはじめる。上海戯曲学校で二胡とヴァオリンを専攻、双方を首席で卒業。その後１９９１年に来日。二胡を通じてさまざまなジャンルのミュージシャンとコラボレーションを精力的に行う。その過程で自ら、従来座って演奏する二胡のスタンディング奏法の考案など、独自の演奏スタイルを確立。ロック、ジャズ、フュージョンとの共演を可能にした、現代二胡のパイオニア的存在。
2002年5月、ワーナー・ミュージック・ジャパンよりメジャーデビューし（現在はソニーミュージックインターナショナル）、これまで6枚のアルバムをリリース。二胡教室と自ら主宰（心弦二胡教室）するほか、坂本龍一氏やケニー・Gとの共演などの国内外のアーティストとのコラボレーション、NHK交響楽団をはじめとするオーケストラとの共演など幅広い活動を続けている。2009年には世界的に活躍する二胡奏者が一堂に会した二胡サミットIN東京をプロデュースしたことでも高い評価を得ている。
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■NPO法人エルエスエイチアジア奨学会■　（寄付先）
2001年1月26日JR新大久保駅でホームから転落した人を助けようと二人の男性がとっさに線路に飛び降り、帰らぬ人となりました。そのうちの一人が韓国人の李秀賢（イ・スヒョン）さん。当時２６歳で日本語学校に通う韓国からの語学留学生でした。
李秀賢さんの「日本と韓国の架け橋になりたい」というご遺志を継ぎたいというご両親のご提案により、スヒョンさんのようにアジアから来て日本語を学ぶ学生たちのための奨学金制度として設立された奨学会です。この奨学会は一般の方々の寄付により運営されています。　　　

コンサート公式ＨＰ：　http://asianwind2011.blog25.fc2.com/　　

Pictures at Gosireh

2010-11-06T20:49:00.006+09:00

A charity gathering in support of the "Smile Project" was held by kiyomi-san's circle "April Snow" and Now on November 3 (a national holiday). Along with another artist (Mr. Yagi), I was invited to exhibit five of my drawings, and we also supported the event by offering picture postcards etc.

The pictures were exhibited in the VIP room of Gosireh, and I was very happy to have over 70 people see my works. (pallet)

Photos of Gosireh below: courtesy of Jaime's blog "Zoom on Bae Yong Joon"
February, 2008

Gosireh

Gate to VIP Room
Entrance to VIP Room

Inside Entrance

VIP Room

Dong Hyuk at the Pool Side

2010-10-28T18:04:00.003+09:00

Shin Dong Hyuk

2010-10-13T11:31:00.002+09:00

Min Hyung-ssi in a Suit

2010-10-03T18:14:00.003+09:00

In a Pensive Mood

2010-09-16T13:43:00.003+09:00

Imagina

BYJ Collection Vol.1

From Sendai to N.Y. Chorus Concert@ Carnegie Hall

TONIGHT - Sirius-san Goes on Stage @ Carnegie Hall!

Kamsahamnida Kim In Moon-ssi ...

Bobby McFerrin " Don't Worry Be Happy"

Sting " WHEN WE DANCE "

A Performance of "Rain, I Will Not Be Defeated"

From CREA Magazine 2006

Japanese New Yorkers and Moms United to Support Japan

"Thank You" is not necessary; U.S. forces honored to help reopen Sendai

The Power of Music!

The Spirit of the Noh Performers

Children's voices soothe Iwate survivors | The Japan Times Online

Kesennuma 's Junior High School Graduates Move Forward...

On Sirius and B.S.J.

BYJ sister "sirius" Calls For Support - Charity Concert for Sendai

From the OLD & NEW Catalogue

Kim Hyun Jung Returns! Playful Kiss Charity Event

Jane Birkin in Tokyo "Together for Japan" April 6, 2011

Prof. Donald L. Keene Claims He is Married to Japan

Don't ever underestimate the power of music

Coming to Japan from Korea!

Together... We Look Up...(updated)

Aigo! Bobby Kim Injured!

LIVE from N.Y. - Concert for Japan Ryuichi Sakamoto and many others

To the People of Hong Kong - Arigato, 謝謝!

~ KoKoRo ~ Argerich Takes it to Heart

Our Prayers are With You...

Ganbare!! Let's Save the Children of Tohoku! Updated with a comment from Dr. Toyoshima

From onpu-san- Thank you Yong Joon-ssi and All BYJ Family!

PRAY FOR JAPAN by wuri sister tomochang

Love to Japan from Paris!

Our Prayers for You BYJ Sister Onpu-san and all Tohoku Kajok...

SOCKS FOR JAPAN - A Way to Deliver LOVE & Warmth

O Rei Dança!

Yumi Matsutoya with Friends Of Love The Earth " Smile Again"

Joon Sang... always...

Children of Iwate Singing "Higher Than the Sky"

Jane Birkin Sends Her Love on Japanese FM Radio J-Wave (amended)

Taro Hakase's Charity Concerts in London

'KIZUNA' - prayer for Japan - by Valerio Berruti & Ryuichi Sakamoto

"Maybe We Can Support the People With Songs..." Community

Messages from New York

Zaccheroni's Samurai Blue will Not Give Up!

Former Principal of the Royal Ballet Miyako Yoshida for Tsunami Appeal Concert

Taro Hakase's Charity Concert Sold Out! RERUN on 20th 10AM!

Video Added -Taro Hakase Calls Out For Help on BBC's Thursday Show

Happy Birthday Pallet!

Taro Hakase Says DON'T GIVE UP!

Message from the Berliner Philharmoniker to the Japanese people

Japan Solidarity Concert@ Tonhalle

SHOW YOUR HEART FUND Launched by GACKT!

Taro Hakase Charity Concert in Aid of Japan Earthquake Disaster@LONDON MITSUKOSHI

Power of Music! (video added Mar 15)

Thank you everyone! March 13 Sun Update

Maestro Seikyo Kim@Rehearsal Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra

Maestro Seikyo Kim@Rehearsal Kanagawa Philharmonic Orchestra

Before Spring Arrives..

R.Sakamoto Playing the Piano from Seoul 20110109 "REPLAY" with Korean Translation

Leave it to Cyndi♪

Can't Get Enough!

That Fool♪

UPLIFTING♪

BYJ is an Cultural Revolutionist Says Gackt

Seikyo Kim on Twitter from Belgium♪

Happy Birthday Jun Sang!

The 14th Donation Present from Japan

Herb and Dorothy Talk Through Skype at Aoyama Gakuin University

Yon-Yon (Yong Joon) Magic!

Togetherness and Warmth

Profiles

A Promising and Charming Guitarist

Omedeto! Nippon!

MARInet's Report on the Gathering Commemorating Lee Soo Hyun-ssi

BYJ-ssi Commemorates the Anniversary of Lee Soon Hyun-ssi's Death

We Shall Not Forget

A Performance by a Living Legend

The Director

Yon Koma Comic "DREAM HIGH"

BYJ　is an Cultural Revolutionist Says Gackt