The Japan Foundation is proud to present the music ensemble INFINITE ECHOES FROM JAPAN at Glenn Gould Studio. This ensemble features the creme of the crop of Japanese performing artists and exemplifies the rich musical traditions thriving in Japan today. The program combines shakuhachi, Tsugaru shamisen of northern Japan and the traditional dances and songs of the Okinawan islands, with western musical elements through piano and drums, pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese music torwards new directions.
INFINITE ECHOES FROM JAPAN
ensemble was formed exclusively for this Canadian tour which celebrates the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Japan. The members come from diverse geographic and performing backgrounds:
At only 18, Mr. SHO ASANO is one of Japan's young, influential players of the Tsugaru shamisen. Multi-talented Ms. ITSUMI HIGA sings Okinawan folk songs and plays the Ryuku flute, sanshin, and shima daiko. Pianist and saxophonist Mr. KIYOHIDE URA is a former member of the pop band Mr. Children, and is also an arranger and music producer. Mr. HAJIME NISHI not only plays traditional Tsugaru shamisen music but crosses over to rock and jazz. Ryukyuan dancer Ms. AYANO NISHIMURA has performed for the celebrations related to the G8 Summit in Okinawa and Kyushu in 2000, and on stage from Europe to North Africa. Mr. RINSAKU TERUYA is an Okinawan folk song singer who plays the sanshin and shima daiko. Drummer Ms. KATSUMI USUI has accompanied leading pop singers and Tsugaru shamisen players, and is known for her delicate yet dynamic style. Mr. KOSHI TSUKUDA is a member of the group Kaze and plays the shakuhachi and shinobue flutes.
Join us for this unique music concert experience, fusing traditional and contemporary music from Japan.
SHO ASANO, Tsugaru shamisen
ITSUMI HIGA, sanshin, shima daiko, Ryukyu flute, singer
HAJIME NISHI, Tsugaru shamisen
AYANO NISHIMURA, Ryukyuan dance
RINSAKU TERUYA, singer, sanshin, shima daiko
KOSHI TSUKUDA, shakuhachi & shinobue
KIYOHIDE URA, piano & saxophone
KATSUMI USUI, drums
CBC Box Office: Located across the street from the Metro Convention Centre and the Rogers Centre.
*Tickets purchased in-person from the CBC Box Office will not incur service charges.
Box Office Hours: 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm Monday to Saturday.
For more information about the Toronto concert, Japanese instruments, photos, artist profiles or the concerts in Ottawa, Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver, please contact the Japan Foundation, Toronto.
The Japan Foundation, Toronto
131 Bloor Street West, Suite 213
Telephone: 416.966.1600 x233
Email: concert@jftor.org
www.jftor.org
This concert is supported by:
The Consulate General of Japan in Toronto
