DeVito graced the celebration for Koshiro Koshi's 88th birthday with her attendance, which turned out to be both jubilant and somber.
The special event was held on November 21 at the Hyatt Regency Kyoto's luxurious 'The Ballroom,' where friends, family, and notable figures from various fields gathered to honor the beloved figure.
Among the prominent guests was Junko Koshino, who, alongside DeVito, paid tribute to Koshi's incredible life and achievements. The festivities opened with traditional performances, enveloping the venue with solemnity as the evening started with the performance of 'Mirror Lion' by Kayo Katsuraku's nagauta.
The night saw not just emotional tributes but also lively musical showcases. DeVito took to the stage alongside the piano virtuoso Yukio Yokoyama. Their duet struck a chord with attendees, highlighting the artistic legacy Koshiro Koshi has inspired through her life.
Koshi was not just known for her work; she was also revered for the way she empowered others around her, including her lessons to Yukio, who was the youngest prizewinner of the Chopin International Piano Competition back in 1990.
The atmosphere of the evening was reminiscent of Koshi's multi-faceted contributions to the art world. A slide presentation unfolded, reflecting on her significant achievements throughout her career, capturing the attention of everyone present.
During the event, the three Koshino sisters—Junko, Hiroko, and Michiko—each embodied the spirit of their late sister, contributing to the event's warmly nostalgic vibe.
A forthcoming film titled 'Godmother: The Life of Ayako Koshino,’ inspired by their mother as depicted in the NHK morning drama 'Carnation,' was also introduced, with the visual elements captivating the audience.
But the night was not solely about reflection; it burst with rich performances, and the warmth palpable among guests illustrated the close-knit relationships birthed from deep respect for Koshi’s legacy.
The climax of this heartfelt evening came when Yoshiki Tsuji presented Koshi with a magnificent bouquet, encapsulating the warmth and appreciation everyone held for her extraordinary life.
Overall, the event was not just to cherish the past but also to carry forward Koshiro Koshi's radiant spirit and uphold her influence for generations to come.