Taking the First Step to Help Revitalize the Local Communities

It has been predicted that about half of the Japanese cities, towns, and villages will face extinction in 50 years. Festivals and mikoshi (sacred palanquins) that symbolize the local culture are beginning to disappear from many areas. Assuming that young people will continue the latest trend of avoiding marriage and raising children, it is said that the Japanese people will be extinct in 500 years. Whether this is true or not, there is no doubt that the future of Japan is in crisis.

Is there any way to salvation? If people disappear from the countryside, who will fish for us? If farmers disappear, who will grow rice? What about beef or milk if meat and dairy farmers disappear? It is still not too late. I think it is important to love the land of Japan, cherish the local cultures, and do something to revitalize the local communities.

One method to revitalize the local community is through music. Music has the power to lift people’s spirits. Whether there is only one person or a group of people, as long as there is music to match the time, place, and the people, the space can shine instantly. This is why I believe that music is the key to restoring the local communities.

As the owner of Sound House, I have been thinking what I can do to make this happen. Well, there is only so much I can do, but if I am going to do it, I want to take a risk by doing something difficult that no one else has done before. And, I not only want to rebuild the communities and ignite change in the area, but I also want to find out how music can be the driving force behind regional development. As the founder of Sound House, I now feel responsible for this task.

Strike while iron is hot! I quickly decided to start working on this project in 2022 and open a new office in Onagawa. I am thinking about the details starting now! I believe that something will spark some good ideas!