In the 16th century, Jesuit missionaries from Portugal and Spain brought violas da gamba and other instruments to Japan to accompany the singing of masses in their newly founded churches. By the middle of the century the missions were becoming well established. Perhaps to show proof of their success, or, as a way to raise European support for missions in the East, the Jesuits appointed four young Japanese converts to go Europe and meet the Pope.
In 1582, the envoy of these four young men, known as the Tensho boys, set off from Nagasaki travelling first to Portugal and then to Spain. Travel records show that the boys were given royal treatment during their journey, and that along the way, they enjoyed many splendid concerts in European courts and churches.
More:
The Tenshō embassy
Chapter Sixteen The Adolescent Envoys of the Tenshō Era
Stamps
Related:
Vocal Recital: Yamada, Chiyomi - NARVAEZ, L. de / FUENLLANA, M. de / CACCINI, G. / DOWLAND, J. / ICHIJURO, K. / HUYGENS, C. (Kurofune)
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