Connecting Smiles and Meals for Children through the Koto~ Charity Concert ~

"Connecting Smiles and Meals for Children through the Koto" Charity Concert

In the summer of 2026, we held a Koto Summer Camp on Himaka Island.

While talking with Mr. Rozan (originally from Nepal), who taught us English there, we learned that in his hometown in Nepal, many children suffer from poverty and struggle to get enough to eat.

Afterward, when we looked into the current situation facing children in Japan, we discovered that many children here in Japan are also suffering from hunger.

Learning about this reality made me feel very sad.

And I started thinking: "What can I do to help solve this sad situation?"

I wondered if I could help ease the sadness of these children through the music of the koto, something I am good at playing.

The koto is an instrument of prayer.

In October 2023, when I was in 3rd grade, I joined the Vatican Peace Music Delegation. I rang the Kagura-suzu (sacred shinto bells) at Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and offered prayers for peace. I was also able to see Pope Francis, even though it was from a distance.

Through music, I saw people from all over the world coming together to discuss how to build peace, and I realized they were deeply asking themselves, "What can I do?"

I love the koto, and this year marks my 6th year of practicing it.

Now, I want to support children who are feeling sad because of hunger by performing the koto.

When I searched online for ways to actually help, I learned that support can be provided in the form of "donations."

That's when I learned about the CBC Charity Fund.

The CBC Charity Fund supports children through food initiatives. Its theme is "Connecting Children's Smiles Through Meals."

I decided to hold this charity concert with the goal of "Connecting Smiles and Meals for Children through the Koto." I will do my best so that many children can smile again.

Won't you join us in supporting the children who are feeling sad and hungry?

Executive Committee Chairperson: Yuwa Sato・Seiga

To all the children who cannot get enough to eat:

You must be going through a hard time, but I hope we can bring strength to you through our koto playing and traditional dance. Please wait for us!

Vice Executive Committee Chairperson: Mitsumi Wakayama・Fuga