Amid Pandemic, a fascinating Tokyo Conducting Competition

Entry Ban, Quarantine, State of Emergency, Olympics: the Tokyo Competition succeeds in taking place anyway 

The 19th Tokyo International Conducting Competition, organized by Min-On Concert Association, took place in Japan as the only international competition not to be cancelled during this year. Chair of the jury, Japanese conductor Tadaaki Otaka, greeted the audience: "Since the COVID-19 pandemic started last year, the situation became worse and worse. We even thought that it might be inevitable to cancel the holding of this competition this time. Considering the possible postponement for a year, we even booked the orchestras for 2022 as well. The organizing committee, however, made a bold decision to hold this competition this year. Even after that decision, the pandemic situation continued to worsen. I was concerned and worried that the competition had to be cancelled after all. And now that you, contestants and judges, are all here. I was moved and overjoyed almost to tears to see you coming all the way.
I have a favor to ask of the three of you. It’s been 50 years since I began conducting. Maestro Blomstedt is in his 90’s. Therefore, I believe that you can continue your career for 70 years from now. My hearty congratulations to you all!”