top of page

LESSONS AND WORKSHOPS

 

Interested in learning how to play the Shinobue? How about learning more about Japanese music, or the taiko drum? 

 

Lessons are provided by Kokichi Kusano. You can inquire about lessons directly through www.kusanokokichi.com under 'lessons'. You can also send us a message and we will answer any of your questions as soon as we can.

 

To learn more about Kokichi at www.kusanokokichi.com, or for direct inquiries on lessons, click here.

 

Kokichi began his performing career at the age of 5 as a member of the Toronto Suwa Daiko a cultural association located in Toronto. Subsequently, Kokichi was introduced again to Japanese music during high school after the death of his grandfather and introduction to the Buddhist Temple where he was re-united with Taiko in 1996 as a member of the Temple’s local group Isshin Daiko. Through this chance encounter Kokichi became an original member of Canada's first professional Japanese taiko ensemble in a career as a lead musician and performer that lasted for nearly two decades. Featured in concerts and festivals throughout North America he is adept at many styles of taiko drumming as well as playing both  the Shinobue (transverse bamboo flute) and the Shakuhachi (vertical bamboo flute).

 

Since 2012, Kokichi has furthered his exploration of Japanese music and culture through extensive international travel, meeting and performing with respected musicians and artisans. Sought after as an independent artist, he has appeared alongside the renowned dancer/musician Kayo Yasuhara as a guest performer with Komachi in such events as the Otakuthon Anime Festival and the International Percussion Festival in Longueuil (both 2014). Kokichi has also teamed up with Ottawa's popular Shamisen virtuosa Ryoko Itabashi in collaborations at the Ottawa Tea Festival and in a feature performance for the Embassy of Japan (January 2015). In a recent career highlight, Kokichi directed and performed in a multi-artist concert at Momiji Centre Toronto for the Consulate of Japan. In addition to teaching workshops and private lessons, Kokichi is actively composing new pieces, pursuing collaborative projects and is available as an artistic consultant for events and groups.

Kokichi Kusano

Traditional Japanese music artist
bottom of page