The koto, or Japanese floor harp, was the instrument favoured by and played by many of the main characters in the famous Japanese novel “The Tale of Genji”. It has always been known for its delicate and beautiful sounds. There are very few teachers of koto in Canada, so here’s your chance to try your hand at this beautiful Japanese instrument.

Over three consecutive evenings, you’ll learn the fundamentals of koto, including components of the instrument, correct playing position, names of the koto notes, some basic playing techniques, and how to read some simple music. No prior musical experience is necessary and you don’t need to be able to read or speak Japanese to take part.

Students are welcome to bring their own instruments. A limited number of koto will be available for rent to use on JCCC premises during the workshop.

Date: Wed. June 9, Thur. June 10 and Fri. June 11, 2010 (3 evenings)
Time: 7:00 – 10:00pm
Fee: $100 + GST
Koto rental: $20

Instructor: Linda Kakō Caplan – is a Dai Shihan (Grandmaster) of the Ikuta-ryu Chikushikai Koto and Shamisen School in Fukuoka, Japan. She has studied koto and shamisen in Japan, Canada and the U.S., and has performed at events in those three countries for over twenty-five years. Her teaching style is a comfortable blend of traditional and modern methods.