Music Transcends Language – The Three Little Pigs Travel to Wakayama

The Three Little Pigs appeared virtually at the Michiru Preschool in Wakayama-city on August 17, 2021. Forty-five children were enchanted by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Symphony Storytime (pre-recorded) of the classic folktale, which featured narration accompanied by violin and cello. After the presentation, the children expressed their reactions and thoughts by making drawings.

This was the first artistic event to cross over from Florida to Wakayama since the founding of the FWCA and its partner, the Wakayama-Florida Association. Mrs. Sayoko Tahara, president of WFA, praised the activity and said, “This experience is a good addition to the children’s future. I am glad we could offer them this program.” She spoke directly to the young audience when she stated, “I hope we can increase exchange activities with Florida and that you will be good friends with the people of Florida even when becoming adults.”

These comments were echoed by Sachi Noto, who served as mistress of ceremonies, and added, “I hope we can introduce our culture and arts to Florida which has provided us the musical experience that enriches children’s sensibility.” The director of the Michiru Preschool, Yoshihiro Ikenaga, enthusiastically agreed saying, “I hope this very first experience for the children will open their horizons to the overseas.”

Local newspaper and television covered the event and the video itself will be shared with many children in Wakayama’s educational institutions. Dr. Morris Marx, Chair of the FWCA, said, “This is exactly the kind of activity for which our organization was founded. We will continue to provide meaningful and rich artistic and cultural experiences from Florida to the citizens of Wakayama, and we look forward to hosting their exchanges.”

Many thanks to all who made this possible!