"Hatsune Miku Symphony 2026" is a concert where you can enjoy masterpieces by virtual singers like Hatsune Miku performed by a full orchestra. The Sapporo performance will be held on Saturday, June 20th, at the Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara. We spoke with Mr. Takahiro Tajima, the concertmaster of the Sapporo Symphony Orchestra, who will be performing, about the unique appeal of the Sapporo performance and how to enjoy the music with an orchestra.

--The Sapporo Symphony Orchestra performed in the first-ever Sapporo performance of the Hatsune Miku Symphony last year, which marked its memorable 10th anniversary. Could you share your impressions from that time?

Takahiro Tajima (hereafter, Tajima): Unfortunately, I didn't perform in the last concert, but I heard it was incredibly exciting. We had been eagerly looking forward to this collaboration for a long time, so the entire orchestra was truly honored to be part of the first Sapporo performance during the momentous 10th anniversary.

The fusion of the original songs' charm and the orchestra's power, creating a sense of unity where the entire venue enjoys the work together, is a unique appeal of the Hatsune Miku Symphony.

--Compared to the audience that usually attends your concerts, how was the atmosphere in the venue?

Tajima: According to the orchestra members and staff who were there, the audience's energy was immense, from before the concert even started until after it ended. I believe the concert was a great success because of the excitement generated by everyone in the audience.

--What are your thoughts on music that originated from internet culture being performed by a full orchestra like this?

Tajima: For us, the most important thing is that many people are interested and that the audience who comes to listen enjoys themselves.

This year's Sapporo performance will also be held at the Sapporo Concert Hall 'Kitara'.

--The Hatsune Miku Symphony Sapporo performance will be held at the Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara for the second consecutive year. Could you tell us about the appeal of Kitara?

Tajima: The Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara, which Sapporo is proud to show the world, has truly unique and beautiful acoustics. The environment is also wonderful, located within Nakajima Park, which is beautiful in every season. I truly hope more people will come and visit.

--Many audience members may not be accustomed to classical concerts. Could you please share the appeal of attending a classical concert?

Tajima: I'd like people to experience the acoustic sound without being constrained by genres like 'classical' or 'pops.' An 'orchestra,' with its centuries of history, is composed of various instruments and people. Of course, you can listen to the sounds of each instrument and the beautiful harmony they create together, but I also think you can enjoy it more if you pay attention to the individual performers and find your 'oshi'—a favorite performer or instrument.

Finally, we received a message for the fans looking forward to the Sapporo performance.

Tajima: I believe this performance will also be an exciting event where the stage and the audience unite. We will make the beloved songs of Hatsune Miku resonate even more captivatingly with the power of the orchestra. Please look forward to it! We are waiting for you at Kitara.

The 'Hatsune Miku Symphony 2026 Sapporo Performance,' where Hatsune Miku's music is performed by Hokkaido's representative Sapporo Symphony Orchestra. The orchestral sound experienced in one of the world's finest concert halls is sure to deliver a new kind of感動 to not only fans of the original music but also to those new to classical concerts. Why not enjoy a one-of-a-kind musical experience on this special Sapporo stage?