CASIO Privia PX-S1000 × mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection: Creators Resonating with “TOKYO WAVES” Vol. 2

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Music Harmonizes the Soul — Kazue Kobayashi, Japan Men's Fashion Association

This April saw the opening of "mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection" (hereafter mesm Tokyo), a luxury hotel in Tokyo's Takeshiba area. The "Autograph Collection Hotels" in its name signifies a collection of hotels with distinct individuality, curated by Marriott International. One such unique feature is the installation of Casio's latest digital piano, the "Privia PX-S1000," in all 265 guest rooms. Kazue Kobayashi of the Japan Men's Fashion Association visited the space to experience the allure of Privia × mesm Tokyo.

Photographs by OHTAKI Kaku | Text by KOIZUMI Yoko | Edit by TSUCHIDA Takashi

What Music Suits the Best Dresser Awards?

The term "Best Dresser" in Japan was popularized by the "Best Dresser Awards" hosted by the Japan Men's Fashion Association. This event, which began in 1972, has become a cherished winter tradition. Kazue Kobayashi of the Japan Men's Fashion Association is involved in the planning and operation of these awards.

Every year, the ceremony draws over 2,000 attendees and numerous media representatives. While the awards ceremony itself is grand and fitting for such an occasion, Mr. Kobayashi felt something was consistently missing: music.

Creators Resonating with “TOKYO WAVES” Vol. 2 | CASIO

Born in Tokyo in 1969. After graduating from university, he worked for an interior design manufacturer before moving to a life insurance company. "After graduating, I was quite arrogant and always wanted to 'jump into the wider world.' At the life insurance company, I met wonderful seniors who taught me what work truly means. Then, through a fortunate connection, I joined the Japan Men's Fashion Association in 2009. My role in external affairs? I manage the awards, handle sales, produce publications... I'm a jack-of-all-trades (laughs)."

The award recipients take the stage under the spotlight, a process that typically lasts about 60 seconds. During this time, we used pre-recorded music. I tried repeatedly to match it to the venue's atmosphere, but nothing felt quite right. It reinforced my belief: 'Pre-recorded sound just won't do. Music must be live!'

Mr. Kobayashi's wish became a dream, and Casio helped make it a reality.

"For the past six years, through a fortunate connection, I've been in charge of the music for the awards. Each piece is tailored to the image of the award recipient, and the composition remains a secret until the day itself. This has been very well-received by the awardees, and sometimes they even ask for the music afterward, saying, 'I'd love to have that track!'

Located on the 26th floor, the highest level of the hotel, the "chapter 4 Suite Luxe" is a sophisticated space featuring a 180㎡ living, dining, and bedroom area, a kitchen, and a 60㎡ balcony. "The color palette is calm and beautiful. The interior design is simple yet high-quality, avoiding the excessive opulence often found in luxury hotels, making it truly relaxing. It's a superb setting."

Moments of Harmonized Emotion Created by Privia and mesm Tokyo

mesm Tokyo was born with the concept of "TOKYO WAVES," aiming to offer content and services that reflect the ever-changing cityscape of Tokyo. The hotel provides unique tools and experiences designed to captivate guests' senses, allowing them to discover new things and encounter unexpected delights. One such element is the "Privia" digital piano found in every room.

"I was surprised to find a digital piano in every room. I've had dealings with hotels both in Japan and abroad for work, including interviews, study sessions, and lectures, and I'm impressed by this particular expression of luxury."

A key challenge in planning the awards ceremony is how to differentiate it from the previous year. "Our guests are primarily members, many of whom attend annually. Therefore, we strive to create a production that offers a sense of change each time."

He then began to discuss the time created by mesm Tokyo and Privia.

"Music has the power to create a personal space, even when sharing a room with others. Listening to music or playing an instrument can help to neutralize your emotions, lift your spirits, or even allow you to confront feelings you weren't aware of. Music is also a tool for self-reflection. Simply having a Privia in the room offers a significant value in harmonizing one's inner state."

From the approximately 60㎡ balcony (※chapter 4 Suite Luxe), one can gaze down upon the lush greenery of Hamarikyu Gardens, with the cityscape and sky stretching out before them—an urban view that belies the proximity to the sea, felt through the distant sound of ship horns and the sea breeze. "A hotel in Tokyo with such a spacious balcony is rare. To have this kind of view in the city, where you can feel the wind and nature, is a unique and compelling attraction."

Fashion: From Style to Way of Life

The Best Dresser Awards, established by Mr. Kensuke Ishizu to foster fashion consciousness, develop the fashion industry, and promote cultural exchange, will celebrate its 49th year. Mr. Ishizu is credited as the originator of the Ivy League look and the founder of VAN Jacket Inc.

"Previously, recipients were chosen based on universally appealing keywords like 'stylish' or 'well-dressed.' Now, we select based on a perspective that encompasses 'a person's lifestyle and way of life as fashion.' We respect individuals who have found their unique style, even if they don't own many clothes or wear particularly expensive items."

The bedroom features a painting of Tokyo by Hiroki Kanayama, the kitchen area displays an apple object by Yuji Ichikawa, and the entrance showcases art pieces by Shoichi Ikeda, among others. The presence of numerous works by Japanese artists is another highlight of the chapter 4 Suite Luxe.

What to wear, what to eat, what to drink, what to see, where to play, where to stay—all these elements constitute fashion and individuality.

"Individuality is one of the reasons people gather. An environment that encourages new endeavors is itself a form of individuality and its greatest appeal. mesm Tokyo likely draws people for this very reason. While Japan's fashion history may be relatively short, Tokyo has now become a city with 'style' comparable to Paris, London, or New York. This is because, even as fashion culture matures, we continue to explore new forms of individuality, constantly asking, 'What's next?'"

By continuously seeking answers to this question, the city remains in constant flux. This dynamism is the driving force behind "TOKYO WAVES."

Since 2004, the Japan Men's Fashion Association has presented the "Best Debutant Award" to promising emerging creators and artists.

"In the past, charismatic figures like Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, and Issey Miyake led 'Japan' onto the world stage. Following in their footsteps, many young designers are striving to make their mark globally. The presence of such next-generation talent is crucial for the industry's vitality. We at the Japan Men's Fashion Association aim to provide support for them."

Creators Resonating with TOKYO WAVES

Model | Privia PX-S1000BK

Dimensions | W1322×D232×H102mm
Weight | 11.2kg
Number of Tones | 18
Price | Open

mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection
Address | Waters Takeshiba Tower Building 4F and 16F–26F, 1-10-30 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Number of Rooms | 265 (Guest room floors 17F–26F)
Facilities | Restaurant "Chef's Theater," Bar & Lounge "Whisk," Banquet Hall "The Banquet," Club Lounge "Club mesm," Fitness
Rates | From ¥65,527 (per room, per night, for 2 guests, including breakfast, tax, and service charge)
Tel. | 03-5777-1111
URL |https://www.mesm.jp
Access | 6-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line/Keihin-Tohoku Line or Tokyo Monorail Hamamatsucho Station; 3-minute walk from New Transit Yurikamome Line Takeshiba Station

Inquiries

Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Customer Service Center
Tel. 03-5334-4909
https://casio.jp/emi/

Inquiries

Privia PX-S Series Special Page
https://music.casio.com/ja/products/digital_pianos/privia/