The Heart of J-pop: Language, Emotion, and Connection

March Theme: Cherry Blossom & Spring Season

Tickets: 

JCCC Members $25
Non-members $30
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Notes:

• This class will be taught in English, but many of the songs will be in Japanese and so too will some of the conversations that follow. Basic understanding/speaking of Japanese is required.
• Attendees also must be able to read Hiragana/Katakana
• 2 - 3 songs will be played and discussed
• This is an 18+ workshop
• no exchanges or refunds

Workshop Overview:

Explore Japanese through music in this artist-led cultural workshop designed for language learners and culture enthusiasts alike. Instead of focusing on grammar drills, participants discover how language lives in songs—analyzing lyrics, sharing impressions, and discussing cultural themes together.

Each session features 2–3 carefully selected Japanese songs from different eras and genres. Through guided listening and discussion, participants explore everyday expressions, poetic choices, and cultural context while building listening confidence and conversational comfort.

Light warm-ups, including ラジオ体操 (radio calisthenics) and short voice exercises, help participants relax and engage with the language. When the group is interested, an optional sing-along offers a playful way to experience rhythm, pronunciation, and emotional expression in real time.

Songs and themes change every session, making each workshop a fresh cultural listening experience for both language learners and music lovers.

What Happens in Each Session:

Each workshop follows a gentle structure designed to help participants relax, engage, and gradually build confidence using Japanese.

Icebreaker | はじめのあいさつ: A short warm-up activity to introduce participants and set a relaxed tone for the session.

Movement (Radio Calisthenics) | ラジオ体操でカラダをほぐす: Light movement to energize the body and create a comfortable learning atmosphere.

Voice Warm-Up | 声出し練習: A brief one-minute vocal exercise to help participants feel more comfortable speaking Japanese aloud.

Core Workshop | 言葉と音楽の時間: Participants listen to a selected song and explore its lyrics through guided activities in a custom workbook. Activities may include:

• Listening for key words and phrases
• Circling words heard in the lyrics
• Discussing interpretations with peers in Japanese
• Exploring cultural context, storytelling, and lyrical nuance

Songs are selected across easy, medium, and more challenging comprehension levels so participants can experience gradual learning and discovery.

Optional Sing-Along Practice | みんなで歌う時間: When requested by participants, time may be set aside for a group sing-along. This playful activity helps learners experience rhythm, pronunciation, and emotional expression in real time. Participation is always invitational, and the group may collectively choose which song to revisit.

Q&A | 質問タイム: Participants can ask questions about lyrics, vocabulary, or cultural topics discussed during the workshop.

Reflection Survey | クラスのふりかえり: A short end-of-class reflection helps gather insights and feedback for future sessions