This year I was so emotional. I felt something strange, but strange in a good way. It was a mixture of many things, many different feelings.
First of all, I felt more close to the people, even closer than before. At the same time there was something very fresh. But I don't know why it happened like this. Now after the last concert of the festival I feel very fresh, so fresh.

Also at the other venues I felt in the same way. "Evening of Tango" in Oita, "Concert for chamber music" at Kita-Kyushu, every time it was so touching and the feeling of freshness was always with me. Of course we did a new program, but it was not the only reason. I was really emotional in a different way. I believe I felt and thought in a very different way, more like the first time.
There was a big tragedy in Japan and there is no doubt that it shadowed my feelings. But still it does not explain everything, it does not explain my feeling of freshness as if we just started the festival. I was so moved.

The party after the last concert was a good example. I usually do not like to speak in front of many people, but this time it was different. Listening to the warm words from the Governor Hirose, I stood up and started my speech. It was so natural, and spontaneously simple words came out from my mouth, simple but very honest words from my heart. Somehow I knew I had to speak,,,something,,,,.

And now I am still feeling something special, something precious, and I would like to enjoy it or rather just be with it quietly.

My wonderful friends and musicians gather together. Hubert came again and played a wonderful Tango with spirit. We met new young artists like Miura-boy (bandoneon), YoungSong (cello), and Suyoen Kim (violin), they did a wonderful performance. And Takashi Shimizu, I was really impressed by him. He played such a beautiful solo in the Schumann quintet with a sense of freshness and also in the Tango he was really in touch with Tango. He showed something very special. He told us in his speech that he was quite depressed after the earthquake and it was very hard for him to move forward. But he was the best solo there with a strong feeling for the people. I was so moved.

It was really a special festival. Earthquake disaster in Japan took the lives of many people, many precious people, and many many people are still suffering with a deep grief. We all wanted to share the energy and hope with those people. During the festival I felt a strong wish of giving and a flow of energy. I was deeply touched by those sincere feelings and I myself wanted to be with everyone and share the wish for the future. Yes, it was really a special festival. Thank you so much !