Japan Ensemble

In Japan Ensemble we have three sections to teach
students their choice of traditional Japanese
instruments: Strings (Koto/Shamisen), Shakuhachi
(the Japanese bamboo vertical flute), or Taiko
(Japanese drums). Instruction is separated by
instrument, and by the end of the semester, the
three groups will have a common goal of playing
together. Kotos, shamisen and shakuhachi will be
on loan from the teachers personal instruments. We
will focus on the folk songs of Japan: traditional
work songs, fishing songs, and festival songs.
Improvisation will be explored, as well as the
possibility for composing original work using the
traditional styles the class has studied. The
goal for all students will be to practice and
prepare their parts and techniques on their
instruments to be able to perform in a final
performance, in person, or virtually.
Possibilities include traditional music
performances live, recorded or video recorded;
original compositions, improvisations, or
interdisciplinary projects with technology or
other art forms. The class may be repeated each
semester for credit. No prerequisites. It is open
to the entire institute. No previous knowledge of
music or Japanese music is necessary.