According to this profile, “Hoshino modestly asks that we not regard his work as the product of a handicapped man or allow emotions of sympathy or admiration to stand in the way of our natural appreciation.”

I remember I was once asked offhandedly by a member of Friendship Asia what I would think of Rondalla On Wheels’ music if I had not known them before and could therefore be a disinterested judge. I can’t answer this question with authority as I can’t be a disinterested listener. But sometimes, while listening to their performance, I close my eyes and I easily forget that the music was being performed by handicapped people.

Which is good because Rondalla On Wheels, as they themselves are quick to point out, is about ability—good, vibrant music, full of energy and vigor—not disability. Rondalla On Wheels’ music stands on its own; listeners need not know or do anything else to appreciate it, which is really how it should be. But if listeners learn that the performers are handicapped people, that fact should enhance and not detract their appreciation of the music.

Tomihiro Hoshino himself saw the Rondalla On Wheels perform and expressed his heart-felt appreciation for their music, a compliment the Rondalla On Wheels are surely pround of.