We received a request to provide a marimba performance at a hospital-integrated senior residence that feels much like a luxury hotel in both atmosphere and facilities.
We carried out all preparations with thorough attention to infection prevention. According to the facility staff, employees at senior care residences must be especially cautious about their private activities and outings. This is understandable, as even a single case of infection within the facility could lead to a serious situation. During this period, staff members have had to remain constantly vigilant, placing a significant mental and physical burden on them.
Thanks to the dedicated care and professionalism of the facility staff, it was possible to hold a small-scale event safely, even under such challenging circumstances.
This performance was scheduled to coincide with Hana Matsuri (April 8), which celebrates the birthday of Buddha. In keeping with the occasion, the facility also served a beautifully prepared seafood chirashi-style celebratory meal.
Based on the theme of Hana Matsuri, we carefully selected a program featuring traditional songs and nostalgic music, tailored to suit senior residents, allowing them to enjoy a calm and meaningful musical experience.
The marimba is a very large instrument, and for transportation it must be disassembled into individual components and reassembled on site.
Among these parts, the wooden bars (keys) are the most critical. Even a small dent or chip can affect the pitch, and restoring or replacing a single bar can cost around ¥30,000. For this reason, extreme care is required when transporting the instrument.
In solo performances, the player must handle both the melody and accompaniment alone, so playing with two mallets in each hand (a four-mallet technique) is considered the standard approach.
The MC was delivered while wearing a mouth shield as an infection prevention measure.
With the building’s high ceilings, the sound of the marimba resonated beautifully throughout the space, allowing me to perform in a very comfortable and inspiring acoustic environment. Some audience members listened with teary eyes, as if reminiscing about fond memories from the past. Being able to perform for them was deeply rewarding, and I am grateful for this wonderful opportunity.
Mariko Kawauchi
