On Friday, February 6, 2026, our Junior High WOW Program hosted a special event titled “Ethnic Instruments WOW – Discovering the Sounds of the World.”

In addition to nine junior high school students, members of the Utoro community—who maintain close ties with our school—also joined us, creating a meaningful opportunity for learning that transcended generations and backgrounds. The performers were professional artists of traditional Korean performing arts from the Pungmul Artists Association of Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea, who traveled to Japan for this occasion.

The audience was captivated by the passionate and powerful performance. The dynamic rhythms and resonant sounds drew students in from beginning to end, and they watched the stage with focused attention. The performers also provided detailed explanations of the traditional instruments used in the performance, allowing students to deepen their understanding of each instrument’s unique tone, historical background, and cultural significance. It was a valuable opportunity not only to “listen” to music, but also to experience the culture behind it.

The performance also featured “Bona Nori,” one of the acts from Namsadang Nori, a traditional Korean performing art registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The skillful spinning and manipulation of the “bona” (plate) amazed the audience. This traditional performance, which resembles the Japanese art of plate-spinning, was met with enthusiastic applause and admiration.

After the performance, many students eagerly asked questions about the instruments, performance techniques, and Korean culture, demonstrating their strong curiosity and desire to learn more. Even with language barriers, the event reminded us that music has the power to connect hearts across cultures.

Through the WOW Program, we will continue to provide opportunities for students to encounter diverse cultures and values from around the world, broadening their perspectives while fostering respect for diversity.