Combining sung and signed choral performance, the White Hand Chorus features vocalists alongside performers wearing white gloves who express the music through sign language. “White Hand Chorus NIPPON” is an inclusive choir that provides free musical education and participation opportunities to children, regardless of economic background or disability. This December, the ensemble will collaborate with the Kyushu Symphony Orchestra for a special concert in Fukuoka.
The program features Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, composed after he lost his hearing, performed through the expressive artistry of the White Hand Chorus—a symbol of creative potential in future generations. Approximately 50 performers, including White Hand Chorus NIPPON members and self-nominated participants of all ages, will join the Kyushu Symphony Orchestra and Kyushu Symphony Chorus to present this celebrated work.
All four movements of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 will be performed. The entire program includes sign language interpretation.
In the lead-up to the performance, related events—including a photo exhibition, workshop, and documentary screening—invite audiences to explore this unique creative initiative.
Applications to perform in the Dec. 7 concert are open to individuals from grade 4 and up, regardless of disability, gender, or nationality. Participants will join rehearsals beginning in late October and take the stage on the day of the performance. Applications open Aug. 1 at 10:00 via a dedicated online form. Approximately 15–20 performers will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis.
White Hand Chorus NIPPON × Kyushu Symphony Orchestra: “Visible, Felt – A New Ninth”
• 12/7 (Sun.)
• Doors open 12:30, performance starts 13:30
• Fukuoka Civic Hall Main Hall
• 5-2-2 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• https://sites.google.com/view/whitehand-chorus-fukuoka/
Advance Tickets (on sale from Sep. 13 at 10:00):
• S seats with bonus ¥4,500, S seats ¥4,000, A seats ¥3,500, B seats ¥2,500
• U-18: S seats with bonus ¥3,500, S seats ¥3,000, A seats ¥2,500, B seats: ¥2,000
• Wheelchair seating, multipurpose viewing room, and hearing loop available; advance reservation required via the designated form (deadline: Fri., Nov. 28; payment on the day)
*Bonus item (a handkerchief featuring artwork by visual artist Chisato Tanaka) can be collected at the venue on the day.
*Same-day tickets: +¥500 (U-18 and disability-discount B seats available at advance price)
*One child under age 3 may sit on a guardian’s lap free of charge
*Admission permitted from age 0; tickets required if a seat is needed
*U-18 and disability-discount tickets require age or ID verification on the day
*Attendees requiring assistance must be accompanied by a caregiver (ticket required)
*Children in elementary school or younger must be accompanied by a guardian
*Resale for commercial purposes is prohibited
*Tickets are non-refundable and may not be changed, except in the event of cancellation
*Performers and program are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances
Related Events at Fukuoka Asian Art Museum
Explore the world of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and the White Hand Chorus through these events:
• “The Miracle of the Ninth” Photo Exhibition (9/11~16)
• Photo Session & Signed Song Workshop: “Freude – Joy” (9/15)
• Documentary Screening: White Hand Chorus NIPPON – Freude! Song of Joy (9/14~15)
