THE CONCERT 2022

Kuniy has been a member and vocalist of Sign Language band, Kokoro Oto, since 2001. Kuniy was born with congenital sensorineural hearing loss and lost most of her hearing of sounds in the high frequency range due to tardive endolymphatic hydrops at the age of 10.

RIMI, an active member in the music scene for the past 25 years, was born with a hearing impairment. RIMI strives to provide entertainment that can be enjoyed by all in the audience, no matter their hearing abilities. RIMI participated in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics’ grand finale.

Makoto Takei leverages his experience as a Child of Deaf Adult (CODA) in the field of Sign Language. He initiated the Sign Language band Kokoro Oto in 2000 and assists in Sign Language work for films, TV dramas and theater. Makoto also aided with Sign Language interpretation during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

Yoko writes for the theater, TV animation and live-action films. Yoko, a Child of Deaf Adult (CODA), and has provided Sign Language interpretation for stage performances since 2011.

Often praised for her ability to show the connection between lyrics and sounds, Amber’s music interpretations demonstrate the emotional bonds which have driven music lovers to concerts for years. Members of the deaf community often say they are able to connect with music performances more than ever from Amber’s signing. Her interpretations have even inspired hearing music aficionados to learn Sign Language! Amber has over 14 years of interpreting experience and a Master’s Degree in American Sign Language Interpretation and English Interpreting.

Danny specializes in American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation, Advanced Japanese Sign Language, International Sign and speaks English and Japanese. In 2005, Danny founded DeafJapan to teach the public basic ASL, Japanese Sign Language, English and Japanese. Danny is experienced in providing ASL interpretation, having interpreted at major events such as the Asian Pacific Congress on Deafness, World Deaf Surfing, the World Deaf Golf and Japan International Cooperation Agency leadership training sessions. Danny is also a certified real estate agent and uses his skills in Sign Language and his expertise in real estate to help Persons with Disabilities and their families find ADA-compliant homes.

Kaori is a certified Sign Language Interpreter who has interpreted for international events such as the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and Olympics. Kaori also assists Sign Language band Kokoro Oto in interpretation works and serves as a member and Sign Language Interpreter for IGENGOLab., an organization that advocates Sign Language by initiating inclusive theatrical experiences.

Fumihisa is active in the local Japanese Sign Language scene. He regularly interprets for the Japanese government and sports organizations. He interpreted for the recently-held 24th Summer Deaflympics in May 2022 and is currently working as a Sign Language Interpreter in a social welfare organization in Japan.