Bonsai Exhibition

We were lucky to enjoy another warm and sunny day at this year’s Bonsai Exhibition in Troon. Our group performed a selection of Japanese music with shamisen and koto. We had spent time preparing a range of pieces especially for the event including traditional songs and folk songs. It was great fun performing together and sharing the sound of traditional Japanese instruments with everyone who came along.

Rehearsing

 


We have been practising Wakamizu/若水 and Kiso bushi/木曽節 for an event in May.

Wakamizu is a piece by Michio Miyagi and it also includes parts for Jiuta shamisen and shakuhachi. This is my first time playing together Jiuta Shamisen and Koto. I thought this piece has a nice rhythm, it can be played at a slow tempo and wouldn’t be too difficult. But when played as an ensemble it turns out to be quite challenging!


Kiso bushi is a folk song and I think it’s relatively easier. It’s a really enjoyable piece to listen to and to play.


I’m excited to see how it all comes together in time…🎵