Bozeman Symphony to Offer Free Screening of Omoiyari
Bozeman, MT — The Bozeman Symphony and Montana State University School of Music invite the public to a free screening of Omoiyari: A Song Film by Kishi Bashi on Tuesday, February 11, at 7:30 p.m. in MSU’s Reynolds Recital Hall, Room 108.
The documentary explores the power of empathy—omoiyari, a Japanese word meaning to have sympathy and compassion for others. Internationally acclaimed singer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Kishi Bashi embarks on a musical journey to examine how the presence and absence of empathy have shaped modern struggles for social justice.
Prompted by a media interview linking the World War II incarceration of Japanese Americans to contemporary issues like the Muslim travel ban and the U.S.-Mexico border crisis, Kishi Bashi sets out to explore the parallels between past and present. Through never-before-seen archival footage, breathtaking visual storytelling, and original music composed along the way, he crafts a powerful reflection on history, identity, and the American experience.
Kishi Bashi will be in Bozeman as the Bozeman Symphony’s inaugural Artist-in-Residence, performing as a guest artist for the Symphony’s concerts on February 14–16 at the Willson Auditorium. In addition to the Omoiyari screening, his residency includes:
A Masterclass at Montana State University – Thursday, February 13, 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Reynolds Recital Hall
Symphony Storytime at the Bozeman Public Library – Wednesday, February 19, 10:15 a.m.
A concert for area fourth graders – Friday, February 21
A free Family Concert at the Willson Auditorium – Saturday, February 22, 10:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Born Kaoru Ishibashi in Seattle and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Kishi Bashi studied film scoring and violin at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. He was the lead singer and a founding member of the electronic rock band Jupiter One and has collaborated with artists such as Regina Spektor of Montreal. His music has been featured in major commercial campaigns for Microsoft, Smart cars, and Sony.
For more information about the Omoiyari screening, Kishi Bashi’s residency events, or upcoming concerts, visit www.bozemansymphony.org or call 406-585-9774.
February 10, 2025
Contact: Peggy Stebbins
Office: 406.585.9774
peggy@bozemansymphony.org