The earthquake that hit northeastern Japan last month sent ceilings crashing as far away as Muza Symphony Hall in Kawasaki, more than 300 km from its epicenter.
According to the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra (TSO), 80 percent of the hall is now considered unusable. As a result, more than 20 performances set to be held at the hall have been canceled so far.
Muza Symphony Hall has been the home of the TSO since it opened its doors in 2004. Despite the orchestra being effectively homeless for now, they hope to continue their 65th anniversary celebrations. The TSO has relocated many of their shows to either the Teatro Giglio Showa or Senzoku Gakuen Maeda Hall.
The TSO is hoping for donations from well-wishers. "We believe that music moves people, encourages them, and heals wounded hearts," says TSO managing director Junji Ohno. "We will continue performing to see us through this disaster."
If you would like to donate, please send money (in yen) by bank transfer to:
Bank Name: MIZUHO BANK LTD. TOKYO
Swift Add: MHBKJPJT, further credit to The Kawasaki Shinkin Bank, Head Office.
Account Number: 1283-1376831
Account Name: TOKYO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
For information on other currencies, visit www.tokyosymphony.com.