On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, International Talk: Let's Learn About Traditional Japanese Music! was held at the UBIC 3D Theater. As many as sixty people participated in the event. This event was to provide participants with an understanding of traditional Japanese music by featuring performers. In particular, the performance of the koto (Japanese string instrument), and shakuhachi (bamboo flute) provided a valuable opportunity to experience Japan's musical heritage.
Details of the event
- Opening
The event began with opening remarks by Senior Associate Professor Julián Villegas, followed by a background explanation of how Japanese music has been passed down to the present day by second-year undergraduate student Tenshi Munasingha, in both English and Japanese.
- Mini Concert
Performers Katsuhiro Suzuki, Ritsuko Yabe, Hiroyoshi Kobuna, Koji Miura, and Yoji Shioya took the stage to perform koto and shakuhachi. The audience was able to experience the fascination of how these traditional Japanese instruments express songs that are familiar to everyone. During the session, there was audience participation, making it a meaningful concert that brought the audience together.
- Hands-on Session
After the performance, students in the audience took advantage of the opportunity to touch and play the Japanese instruments. They were given explanations about the instruments and enjoyed interaction with the performers. The students deepened their understanding of traditional Japanese music and actively exchanged opinions with each other.
Participant's Comment
- It was my first experience to hear a live performance by traditional Japanese instruments, and I was very impressed. The sound of the shakuhachi was impressive (Anonymous undergraduate student).
- I learned about the history of Japanese music and performance techniques. Thank you for this precious opportunity to experience koto. (Anonymous graduate student)
The next International Talk is scheduled for December.