Embassy Concert
On January 30th, 2017, Ambassador Monji and Mrs. Monji hosted a charity concert “Embassy Concert” at their residence, in aid of the Friends of the National Arts Centre Orchestra. The Friends of the National Arts Centre Orchestra is a not-profit organisation which raises funds to support music education and young musicians. Around 70 people attended including fifty members of the Friends and The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, Chief Justice of Canada and her spouse.
The performers were Mr. Yosuke Kawasaki, Concert Master and Violinist, Ms. Joanna G'froerer, Principal Flautist, Ms. Rachel Mercer, Associate Principal Cello and Mr. Vadim Serebryany, Guest Pianist.
The event began with a speech by Ambassador Monji, in which he hoped that the concert would not only foster mutual understanding, but also would help to build a bright future for music in Canada. The performance then began with a rendition of Summertime by George Gershwin, followed by Six miniatures by Louis Haber, the London Trio no.1 in C major, and concluded with Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio op.50 1st movement Pezzo Elegiaco. Each piece was introduced by Mr. Kawasaki.
After the concert, Mr. Robert Lafleur, President of The Friends gave a speech in which he thanked the Ambassador for his support and outlined how the funds raised would be used to support youth engagement in music.
At the following reception, guests enjoyed Japanese food and sake, as well as an opportunity to talk with Ambassador, and Mrs. Monji and the performers.
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Ambassador Monji's greeting |
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Mr. Yosuke Kawasaki's introduction |
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Mr. Robert Lafleur, President of The Friends of the National Arts Centre Orchestra’s speech |
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Sake tasting at the sake booth |
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Mrs. Monji and participants wearing Kimono |
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Embassy Concert performers |
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The performers with Ambassador and Mrs. Monji |
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