By Mariko Watabe
This is our final installment. Today I will discuss Yamatogaku itself and the concert to be held on Nov. 2.
Yamatogaku was born in 1933. Unlike traditional Japanese music that came before it, this was the first music in Japan created to be performed primarily by women. While classical performing arts had long been a male-dominated world, Yamatogaku was conceived as a new form of shamisen music that could express the delicacy and elegance of women.
The founder, Baron Okura Kishichiro, who was also the founder of Hotel Okura, was a cultured man who left behind these words: “Wealth fades, but culture is eternal.” True to his words, Yamatogaku continues to resonate with beautiful tones even after more than 90 years.
The distinguishing feature of Yamatogaku is its gracefulness. In contrast to the powerful strength of nagauta, it possesses a delicate and refined sound. Since many of the performers are women, feminine expression is naturally woven into the music, gently embracing the hearts of listeners.
Yamatogaku in Los Angeles originated when folk song performer Sato Matsutoyo began studying it in Japan in 1999. In 2000, the second headmaster of Yamatogaku, Master Yamato Hisamitsu, visited and formally established Yamatogaku USA. A large-scale concert was also held in 2008. This year marks the 25th anniversary milestone, and a commemorative concert will be held on Nov. 2 at the Norris Theatre in Rolling Hills Estates.
The concert will feature five renowned musicians of the new generation, including the third headmaster of Yamatogaku, Master Yamato O-Sho. With multilingual actress Hattori Mako serving as emcee, this will be an all-day Japanese music festival where a total of over 50 people will perform 23 pieces.
Yamatogaku USA has nine certified performers (natori) and students ranging from small children to nearly 90 years old, including people without Japanese roots. Seeing people from such diverse backgrounds find appeal in Japanese traditional music and study it earnestly gives me hope for the future of Yamatogaku.
Today, Japanese anime, films, and cuisine are gaining popularity worldwide, and a wave of authentic Japonisme is spreading. Because we live in such times, I want many people to experience the beauty of Japan’s classical performing arts.
The concert will open with a performance of the signature piece “Shiki no Hana” (Flowers of the Four Seasons) by all 25 members. All participants are practicing diligently for the performance. This is an opportunity for authentic Japanese classical performing arts to return after 17 years – please come to the Norris Theatre to experience the beautiful sounds of Yamatogaku.
Doors open at 12:30 p.m.; performance begins at 1:00 p.m. Tickets: $40 adult, $20 children 12 and under. Purchase at palosverdesperformingarts.com. For more information, call (805) 477-8303 or email Yamatogakuusa25@gmail.com.