Author: Chung

Special Workshop (5/1): “Ei Ja Nai Ka?” by PJ Hirabayashi

/ Chung

The inspiration for Ei Ja Nai Ka (EJNK) came from the high energy of Japanese festivals and folk dances, such as Kyushu’s Kokura Gion Matsuri and Awa Odori of Shikoku. EJNK is dedicated to the Issei (the first Japanese immigrants to America) and celebrates Japanese American history through movements that reflect the Issei’s work in agriculture, mining, and railroad construction. In recent years, EJNK has expanded beyond San Jose Taiko and is included in a growing number of North American Obon festivals.

Ei Ja Nai Ka is also one of several shared experiences used to bring people together under the idea of TaikoPeace. TaikoPeace, created by PJ Hirabayashi, is a movement, mindset, and mantra dedicated to unleash creativity, spark new connections of co-creativity, and heal the human spirit through the dynamic energy of taiko drumming. Inspired by Karen Armstrong’s Charter for Compassion, TaikoPeace seeks to amplify positive social change through personal transformation among all people. To learn more visit: http://pjhirabayashi.com

Date: May 1, 2016 (Sunday)
Time: 4-6pm
Location: Washington Middle School Continue reading →

“Injury Prevention for the Performing Artist” Special Workshop by JoJo Salami

/ Chung

“Injury Prevention for the Performing Artist”
Special Workshop by Jo Jo Salami (Friday, March 11 at 6-8pm)

Jo-Jo Salami is a Bodywork Therapist from Boston.  He specializes in function,structural integration, osseous/muscular balance and stabilization, connective/deep tissue work and energy work. He has worked with taiko drummers on both coasts and Hawaii, conducted workshops for North American Taiko Conferences. During his stay, he will also be available for private treatments.

Date & Time: Friday 3/11, 6-8pm
Location: Washington Middle School Choral Room
Fee: $35 for adults, $25 for youth to age 17
Things to Bring:  comfortable clothing, bottle of water, large towel to sit/lie on
More information:  808-737-7236 / taikoclasses@gmail.com
Registration Form:

Continue reading →

TCP performing at Ohana Festival (Jan.10)

/ Chung

JCCH Ohana Festival
Source: http://khon2.com/2016/01/04/welcome-in-2016-at-new-years-ohana-festival/

As part of its New Year’s tradition, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai`i (JCCH) will celebrate 2016 with its annual New Year’s `Ohana Festival on Sunday, January 10. Nate Gyotoku, JCCH’s Chief Operating Officer/Director of Programs, says, “The New Year’s ‘Ohana Festival is our largest community event of the year! It is the largest festival highlighting Japanese New Year’s traditions and has in itself become a big tradition for the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii and the community over the years.” Continue reading →