1/10/2026 Mr. Tsutomu Ando’s Solo Tenor Recital – Still Going Strong at 99

Now, in the alumni association of the company where I used to work, there is a gentleman named Tsutomu Ando, who will be celebrating his 99th birthday this year (according to the traditional Japanese age‑counting system).

He holds a solo recital every few years as a hobby, and I recently received an invitation announcing that he will be giving a concert to commemorate his 99th birthday. I am once again amazed that there are such energetic elderly people.

Although I worked in a different division, I had the opportunity to assist him several times during my time in Hamburg and New York. He is also fond of painting and is a very talented individual.

In the past, his recitals were usually held in medium‑sized halls with a capacity of 500–600 people, but when I met him at the alumni association meeting last October, he mentioned that he was planning to rent a large hall with a capacity of 1,300 people this time.

It is customary for him to sing without a microphone, but I wonder what he will do on this occasion. His vitality is truly remarkable for someone of his age.

Speaking of which, I am reminded of being surprised two years ago by The Akahoshi Family’s Golf DNA, a book published by my friend’s older sister, who was also 99 at the time.

If anyone is interested in attending the solo recital, please let me know.