Music to Your Ears: The Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra

Jan 24, 2022

Music to Your Ears: The Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra

While it is often easy to find places to see Japan’s natural and manmade wonders, sometimes we all need to unwind and let ourselves appreciate the finer things in life. As you are in a country with a rich history in the fine arts, why not allow yourself to be taken into the world of classical music for an evening with the Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra?

Who Are We Talking About?

Founded in 1963 as the “Hiroshima Civic Symphony Orchestra,” the orchestra was renamed the “Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra” in 1970 and gained professional status in 1972. Since then, the orchestra has been performing numerous concerts every year while reaching out to the community of Hiroshima to help cultivate a culture of music.

In addition to performing around the country, the orchestra itself has been invited to perform overseas on numerous occasions. Featuring guest performances from living legends such as internationally renowned pianist Martha Argerich, the orchestra performed for the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

Being a part of Hiroshima city and its history, the symphony prides itself on representing the city and reflects this in its motto, “Music for Peace.” The theme of peace is frequently mentioned over the city website and is a pivotal part of the orchestra’s message.

What Kind of Performances Can I Expect?

The orchestra has a robust lineup of pieces from composers throughout history. Whether it be the beautiful Baroque of Bach or the serendipitous and sublime strings of Sibelius and Stravinsky, the orchestra has performances from every major period of orchestral music. Modern composers are also represented, with the orchestra also performing pieces composed by their Composer in Residence, Toshio Hosokawa. There is undoubtedly something for everyone.

Okay, You’ve Got My Attention. Where and When Do I Attend?

Performance times, dates, and prices are on the HSO official website, which has a robust English section, so feel free to dig around for more detail. Of course, consider that concerts may be subject to cancellation due to ongoing COVID-19 issues and measures.

How Can I Purchase a Ticket?

If you navigate through the Japanese side of the HSO official website, you will be able to make purchases online, check out the seating, and search for events via web filters. Most of the text translates (fairly) smoothly when using browser translations via right-click and “Translate to English” as well. However, it is also possible to write an application form from the English side via the ticket web page. Specific seat reservations can be handled via phone call if needed. Should you make an application, you would need to pay at the ticket window of the appropriate venue on the day, so please be sure you have confirmed any necessary details before attending the concert in question.

What If I Have Further Questions?

The website has a contact us link that would allow you to make any further inquiries regarding attire, rules, or any other questions you may have.

We hope you have a lovely time, and should you attend, be sure to drop us a comment and let us know how it went!