The OTOKAI Friends Concert is a monthly concert series featuring original music performed in a warm and intimate setting. A video of each performance will be released during the third week of every month.
The fifth concert is inspired by the theme “Ferris Wheel.” This concept originated from a participant in the second OTOKAI demonstration study who answered “Ferris wheel” when asked, “If you could describe OTOKAI in one word, what would it be?”
A Ferris wheel slowly rises toward the sky, revealing ever-changing scenery and evoking a sense of new perspectives, hope, and new beginnings. At the same time, after completing a full circle, it gently returns to its starting point, reminding us of reunions, home, cherished memories, and the warmth of coming back to what matters most. This concert program was carefully arranged around these two themes—change and return. Surrounded by the calm atmosphere of the venue and the warm tones of the music, the audience enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing musical experience.
▼ OTOKAI Friends Concert Vol. 5 – Music That Connects Hearts and Supports Brain Health
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXUqURo8oe4
■Date
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
■Performers
・Gyo Kitagawa (Guitar)
Born in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, he has written lyrics for Arashi’s Happiness and My Girl, and served as lyricist, composer, and arranger for M!LK’s Ichi Ni no San. He has also produced the popular Brass Band Disney! series and has contributed to numerous other musical projects.
・Norimichi Kokubo (Guitar)
Born in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. He is also a member of the guitar and violin duo mille baisers. Having performed on international tours, he has released ten albums and video productions.
・Ayaka Yoshizawa (Tambourine)
Born in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Graduated from the Piano Department of Senzoku Gakuen College of Music. She began studying piano in early childhood and later played the clarinet in her junior high school orchestra. She currently manages the OTOKAI project at Amadeus Code Inc.
■Program (Composer)
- On a Journey — Maurice Claude
- Sweet Lounge — Norimichi Kokubo
- Grand Parade in Toy Town — Maurice Claude
- A Premonition of Reunion — Little Tom
- Breeze and Whistling — Little Tom
- White Silent Dream — Maurice Claude
- OTOKAI Parade — Norimichi Kokubo
■Venue
calme
2F Shinmura Building, 1-2-5 Ohashi, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
Approximately a 9-minute walk from Ikejiri-Ohashi Station
TEL: +81-3-6455-1932
https://calme-tokyo.com/
Nestled in Ikejiri-Ohashi, calme is an intimate wine bistro for adults. Guests can enjoy carefully selected wines from around the world alongside seasonal dishes thoughtfully prepared to complement each selection. The restaurant is also known for the warm hospitality of its owner, Mr. Sano, who values wine, food, music, and human connection, creating a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy an unhurried moment.