Kaoru Watanabe, one of the world’s leading taiko and shinobue (Japanese flute) artists is coming to DC!
Mark H Taiko is proud to present a workshop and special performance with Kaoru in Takoma Park on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27.
Kaoru Watanabe is a Brooklyn based composer and musician who specializes in both taiko and shinobue (Japanese flutes). A former member and artistic director of the internationally renowned taiko ensemble Kodo, Kaoru is an instructor for kaDON (an online taiko and fue resource presented by Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten of Tokyo) as well as the founder of the Kaoru Watanabe Taiko Center in New York. He has been a visiting lecturer at Princeton University since 2010 and has taught courses at Wesleyan University as well as Colby and Dickinson Colleges. He also has extensive training in Western music, having earned a BFA in jazz flute and saxophone performance from the Manhattan School of Music.
Workshop: Form and Function – Body Mechanics for the Taiko Player ($75)
Saturday, September 26, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
This workshop will help participants develop greater body awareness in order play taiko with considerably more power, efficiency and grace.
More information about the workshop
Performance: Meet the Artist ($10 – $20 Suggested Donation)
Sunday, September 27, 7:30 pm
In this special evening, Kaoru will share current pieces and share his methodologies and influences in an intimate, informal setting. This unique opportunity is perfect for everyone – from experienced taiko players to those who will be seeing taiko for the very first time.