As part of the "PIECE of PEACE (Peaceful Fragments) Project" undertaken by the Takao Ito Laboratory of the Department Department of Social Design Faculty of Art and Design, a conductor's baton made from a tree that survived the atomic bombing, called "Heiwa no Tact," was used for the first time during the Harvard Radcliffe Orchestra's (USA) Japan tour (Yokohama, Tokyo, Nagasaki, Hiroshima) held from May 20th (Wed) to 24th (Sun). The tour was held under the theme of "Music as Peace."
This project, launched to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing (2025), is themed around "experiencing peace through the five senses, including trees that survived the bombing." The production of Heiwa no Tact was realized through a joint project with Benex Nagasaki Brick Hall, which serves as a hub for music and culture in Nagasaki, supporting concerts and various events by domestic and international artists. The production was handled by Daisuke Matsumoto of "String Instrument Workshop Matsumoto" (Fukuoka City), who is also an alumnus of Faculty of Art and Design at this university.
On Saturday, May 23rd, Professor Ito and his students visited Nagasaki for the performance and shared information about the project at a booth. They also presented Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki, who was in attendance, with an amulet made from a tree that survived the atomic bombing, conveying the sentiments behind the project.
Furthermore, before the performance, there was a conversation with conductor Federico Cortese. Holding his baton, he said, "Today, I have chosen to use this special baton to perform a requiem in remembrance of those who have passed away. I also want to use this baton when performing with local children, to convey a wish for future peace that transcends past sorrows."
As the concert began, watched by an audience of all ages, from children to adults, Mr. Cortese's "Baton of Peace" beautifully vibrated the air, drawing out an overwhelming sound from the orchestra.
After the performance, Professor Ito said, "I felt that the moment when the young musicians who had gathered from across the ocean played harmony centered around Heiwa no Tact, a time was created where we, along with the audience, could feel peace. I hope that the story of this project, along with the desire for peace, will spread throughout the world."
[Department of Social Design]
