Message from the Chairman
Dear customers
The state of emergency that lasted for nearly two months has finally been lifted, but we understand that many people are still experiencing anxiety and inconvenience. The Japan Philharmonic Orchestra was forced to cancel almost all of its performances until the end of June, but from July onwards, we are determined to bring you "live performances" and are preparing to resume concerts while taking all possible measures to prevent infection. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to you in various ways due to the suspension of the orchestra's activities during this period.
As we resume activities, we would like to inform you of the current situation of the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and ask for your understanding. Due to the impact of COVID-19, the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra has been canceling performances since February 29th, and by the end of June, a total of 47 performances (publicly announced) have been canceled or postponed. It appears unlikely that we will be able to hold performances as usual for the foreseeable future. This will have a significant economic impact, resulting in an annual deficit of over 400 million yen and a debt exceeding 300 million yen. While the orchestra faces a crisis of survival, we must protect and nurture the artistic and social values we have built throughout our history, as well as Japan's treasured performers and musical culture. We are making maximum use of subsidies from the government and local governments, and are making every effort to protect and nurture our performers and musical culture, including self-help measures such as salary cuts, suspending regular salary increases, and forgoing bonuses. However, we cannot survive without your support. We appreciate your understanding and support. You have supported us in various ways, including donations equivalent to ticket prices for canceled performances, online donations, and membership in our Patronage and Supporters Clubs. We are deeply grateful for your kind thoughts. All members of the orchestra will continue to do their utmost to ensure the survival of the orchestra and the continuation of musical culture.
The Japan Philharmonic Orchestra is currently resuming its activities in June by streaming and videotaping performances without an audience, and is preparing to welcome back audiences in July. Due to the influence of government and local government policies and restrictions on international travel, changes to scheduled performance programs, performers, and seating may be necessary, which may cause inconvenience. We appreciate your understanding. We will also take all possible measures to prevent infection at concert venues, striving to ensure that everyone can enjoy music with peace of mind. We hope you look forward to the resumption of the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra's performances and musical activities, characterized by "warmth" and "compassion for others."
2020 June 6
Japan Philharmonic Orchestra
Chairman Toshikuni Hirai
