Want to experience
Japanese tradition?
You can do it here!
What you can expect
- You can learn Koto’s history and culture.
- You can learn the proper manner of playing the koto.
- By the end of the lesson, you can perform a famous piece “Sakura.”
Detail
You shall be introduced to the Koto—Japan’s national musical instrument. You will briefly learn the instrument’s rich history and will get to touch and play the instrument themselves. You will be instructed in the proper manner of playing the koto—from setting up the instrument, playing with proper posture and technique, to reading koto notation. By the end of the lesson, you will have learned how to play your first koto piece: “Sakura.”
- Lesson flow
- Brief History
- Parts of the Koto
- Setting up the Koto
- Tuning (平調子)
- Using Tsume (Ikuta method)
- Proper Koto Posture (Ikuta method)
- Proper Tone production
- Proper Technique—Avoiding Tension
- Reading Koto Notation
- Sawai Etudes #1-5 (Finger 1)
- Descending scale (Finger 1) – prep for Sawai Etude #6
- Sawai Etudes #6-7
- “Sakura”
- Sawai Etude #9 (Fingers 2 & 3) [*If time permits]
- “Sakura” (Repetition) [If time permits]
- Putting away the Koto (Disassembly)
Actual lesson video
Who is the teacher?
Hanz Santos
The Koto is such a beautiful sounding instrument. Although it is hard work to properly play it, it is also a very relaxing and rewarding musical instrument to play. If you are looking for an introduction into the rich world of traditional Japanese music, I invite you to come learn and play the Koto with me. I believe that anyone can learn to play this beautiful instrument. I hope that you get to have as much fun playing the koto as I do. See you soon!
Fee
| 9,900yen / person |
| #90min Group lesson, up to 4 people |
| #From 10 years old and above |
| #Foreigners who can understand English are welcome (The lesson is held in English) |
Location
Customer voice
I liked the lesson overall and I enjoyed playing. I felt that Hans was very attentive to each student and progressed the class smoothly. It was an enjoyable experience.
It was a great introduction to how to play and learn about the instrument a bit more. The teacher was great at explaining and engaging with us and giving us guidance in a kind and helpful way.
I enjoyed Learning about the history of the instrument, tuning, and learning cipher notation.
Q&A
Can I take the lesson by myself?
Whether you’re alone, in a group, or an entire family, everyone is welcome to take the lesson!
Can I take the lesson in the morning?
Unfortunately, lessons in the morning are not possible. We are open from noon to 9pm.
We are a family of 4 people. Can we take the lesson together?
Yes. We can accept the group if you are less than 4 people. And we recommend participants more than 10 years old, but if you take care of your child who is less than 9 years old, it’s still fine.
I want my own Koto so I can practice at home. Where can I buy one?
Our Kotos are also for sale. You can purchase one from our shop. Details will be provided after the lesson.
I enjoyed my first session! Is it possible to take more lessons after the first one?
Yes, it is possible. We can also arrange online Koto lessons! Further information will be provided after the first session.
Order request
You can contact by
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