10th KIFC: 2nd phase of the 10th edition to be held online
Due to the current situation of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, the Kobe International Flute Competition (KIFC) has decided to hold the second phase of its 10th edition, which was scheduled to take place in March 2022 in Kobe, online.
KIFC has explored every possible option to unfold the 10th KIFC’s second round and onward in March even after new measures for the border enforcement in response to the global spread of the Omicron variant were released by the Japanese government on November 29, 2021.
However, since suspension of foreign nationals’ new entry to Japan was extended until the end of February 2022, we determined that it is impossible for us to realize the competition on-site in Kobe. Also, since we cannot anticipate when travel restrictions would be relaxed, we decided not to re-postpone, but to execute the competition online.
This was an exceptionally difficult decision that was not made lightly. Our 26 contestants advanced to the second round have committed to this opportunity while dealing with various difficulties they confront in the midst of the pandemic. And, we believe that our decision is the best and only solution to allow all 26 contestants to participate in the competition and fulfill their challenges.
Before the Changes
Format: Kobe, Japan / In-person
Performing with official pianists, Eri Ishibashi, Naoko Ishibashi, Tomoya, Okamoto, Kaeko Suzuki, and Rie Yoguchi, for the second and third rounds and the Kobe City Chamber Orchestra for the final round.
Dates: March 22 through 28, 2022 at Kobe Bunka Hall
After the Changes
Format: Online (video screening)
Repertoire for the final round will be change to piano version. Perform with a pianist of contestant choice for the second to the final rounds.
Date: March 22 through 28, 2022 (streaming at KIFC’s official website / schedule to be announced)
*Award ceremony and exhibition concert will be postponed at the later date.