Carmel Valley Library to feature Japanese Chorus Kaguya

A special free family music program sponsored by the Friends of the Carmel Valley Library will be presented on Wednesday, April 18 at 7 p.m. in the library’s community room. It will feature Japanese Chorus Kaguya (Kah-goo-yah), a group of individuals who love to sing Japanese songs with a harmony of voices and hearts. Its program will include old and new songs, all of which have been popular in schools and homes for many years. Some are beloved traditional folk songs, and some are recent pop songs. Musical instruments will accompany a few of the songs including percussion for Kaze ni Naritai (I Want to be Wind). All songs will be introduced in English, and no Japanese knowledge is necessary to enjoy the performance. The program will last 45 minutes.

Japanese Chorus Kaguya started in 2006 with a few music lovers and grew to a group of 25 members. Its repertoire includes 100-year old classical, yet popular, songs as well as songs from modern Japan. Kaguya has contributed to the local San Diego community by performing at senior residences and at various cultural and charity events.

Kaguya’s current music director is Mariko Kanamitsu, a soprano who has performed at many venues in the San Diego area including this library. The chorus is accompanied by pianist and composer Mizue Shapiro. She has arranged many of Kaguya’s songs, including its original song Omoi Hitotsubu (A Seed of Hope), the lyrics of which were written by a Kaguya member to show sympathy and give strength to those affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011.

The library is at 3919 Townsgate Drive in Carmel Valley. For more information, call (858) 552-1668.