“Wasabi, The Spirit of Japan: The Sound of Traditional Instruments,” one of the highlights of the 40th year of Asean-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, was held Oct. 19 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Little Theater (Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino).

 

The concert was Wasabi’s debut performance in the Philippines and its first outside Japan.

 

The concert-goers were treated to 14 Japanese compositions uniquely rendered with Wasabi’s trademark strong and dynamic style of music. People were delighted with the artists’ surprise performance of the Filipino folk song “Sitsiritsit.”

 

The 90-minute concert was met with a rousing applause and high praises by the audience.

 

After the concert, Wasabi arranged for a short meet and greet with their audience. Raving fans were able to shake hands, take pictures and get the autograph of their adored artists.

 

As part of the group’s advocacy to promote traditional Japanese culture to younger audiences, Wasabi held a master class at a jam-packed Abelardo Hall Auditorium, UP Diliman, QC, a day before the concert.