KITAKYUSHU -- The harmony of masterpieces is back. The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra kicked off its Japan tour Thursday at Kitakyushu Soleil Hall.
This is the world-class orchestra's first tour outside Austria in several months due to the pandemic, and excited, mask-clad fans showed their appreciation for the first-rate performance with enthusiastic applauds.
Vienna Philharmonic Week in Japan 2020 will also perform in three other cities through Nov. 14.
According to the Suntory Foundation for the Art and Suntory Hall, which contributed to the invitation of the orchestra, the members of the Vienna Philharmonic are exempted from the usual 14-day self-quarantine, which is required at the time of entry to Japan.
With precaution in mind, the orchestra's tour will take place under such measures as keeping to social distancing and traveling via a chartered plane and bus. The members will also refrain from needlessly going out and will take PCR tests every few days during their stay, though they tested negative upon arrival.
"We accepted the unfamiliar conditions from our strong desire to deliver performances to the Japanese audience who we cherish," said Michael Bladerer, General Manager [and bassist] of the Vienna Philharmonic.
"[The orchestra] was allowed to enter the country after a comprehensive review by the entire government, provided that strict and appropriate quarantine measures were secured," Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said at a news conference Wednesday.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
