Greetings from sunny Tokyo!
This is just a short post to share about the Hiroshima concert which was cancelled, and why it was both expected and unexpected.
I’m sure the fact that an event is cancelled at this time is no surprise to anyone, however looking a bit more at Japan’s present stance it is more complicated. Covid cases across the country continue to rise, and certain cities are in a state of emergency, such as Tokyo. Hiroshima was rumoured to be declaring similarly, but as of today, have not declared a state of emergency.
Unlike in the UK, with Japan even under this ’emergency’ shops and restaurants remain open, with a curfew of 8pm (which some restaurants are choosing not to follow). The official rule is that events can continue to take place at a 50% capacity, up to a maximum of 5,000 people. This rule continues even in cities with a state of emergency. And that’s why the cancellation of Hiroshima is a little surprising…but the right call for everyone’s safety I’m sure.
Sadly this is the third time that I’ve had a cancellation of a Mozart Clarinet Concerto performance due to covid, but fourth time lucky…maybe? Let’s see what happens in May and whether this Mozart might survive! And meanwhile Smaug, my basset clarinet, has gone back into hibernation.
I’ve taken a few days off from playing but am keeping busy with online work, and extended my stay in Tokyo until March where I feel much safer…for now…and have plenty of books to read and fibre to spin to keep me happy! My recent purchase includes cashmere, yak, and alpaca fibre! Wishing everyone a good rest of January, whatever is in store!
