I whole heartily congratulate the Federation of Japan Amateur Orchestras, Corp. (JAO) for making possible the International Festival of Amateur Orchestras '96 in Tokyo.
Since its establishment in 1972, the activities of JAO have been very fruitful. I have had the pleasure of working to promote musical activities in the local areas. Last year, JAO incorporated. Through this federation, the technical production of the amateur orchestras have improved and players throughout Japan have had the opportunity to interact with one another by participating in large performances. By the workings of the federation, local amateur orchestras have flourished, junior amateur orchestras have been trained and there have been exchanges with amateur orchestras abroad. My hope is to see this growth and development continue in the future. This year's festival celebrates the 24th National Festival of Amateur Orchestras and the 12th TOYOTA Youth Orchestra Camp. In the past these events had been separated. But this year they will be held concurrently. This change will improve the technical abilities of the players and call for the mutual growth of both parties. It is a very promising development and we should expect great results.
In closing, I would like to express my heartful congratulations to the Federation for its remarkable achievement and my sincere hope that the Federation's success will continue in the future.