Yamatogaku USA performance at 2025 Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival.
Monterey Park's annual "Cherry Blossom Festival" celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2025, running for two days on April 12-13. On the final day at 3 p.m., the Japanese traditional music group "Yamato-gaku USA" performed a concert at the theater in the Civic Center.
Yamato-gaku is the newest genre of shamisen music in Japanese traditional arts, established in 1933 by Baron Kikichiro Okura. While centered around the shamisen, it boldly incorporates elements of Western music, featuring harmonies and round singing by female voices, creating an accessible and vibrant musical style.
The program featured three pieces: "Edo Matsuri (Edo Festival)," "Kitsune (Fox,)" and "Musume Mikoshi (Girls’ Festival Shrine Procession)." Multiple drums and Japanese percussion instruments accompanied the shamisen, beautifully expressing the lively atmosphere of Japanese festivals. Despite the venue being somewhat removed from the main festival grounds, many Japanese culture enthusiasts attended, drawn into the charm of Yamato-gaku in the intimate theater setting.
A highlight of the performance was the simultaneous percussion playing and singing by Mariko Watabe of Fuji Japanese Music (Yamato-gaku name: Yamato Kyosho, percussion name: Katada Kimisen). She demonstrated remarkable skill by playing complex rhythm patterns called "tegumi" while singing Yamato-gaku lyrics between the shamisen notes, captivating the audience.
Yamato-gaku USA has scheduled more performances throughout Southern California, with their next appearance set for June 8 at the Torrance Cultural Center for the "Bridge USA" kickoff event.
Additionally, celebrating their 25th anniversary of activities in the United States, Yamatogaku USA will hold a special anniversary concert on November 2 at the Norris Theater in Palos Verdes. This special event will feature five musicians from Japan's premier performance circuit, including a shamisen player with exceptional technique, a percussionist whose father is a designated Living National Treasure, and promising young talents. The program will also include performances with Yamato-gaku USA students, offering a rare opportunity to experience music that transcends cultural and language barriers.
Contact: fujijapanesemusic@gmail.com
