Norman Kaneshiro is an extremely talented performer, teacher, University lecturer and a wonderful friend of mine. I had the pleasure of briefly studying the art of uta-sanshin under his instruction. (Yes, I’m on hiatus from that, too.) He is so passionate and knowledgeable about the art; if you have an interest in Okinawa or Okinawan music, I highly recommend that you attend this free lecture/demonstration at the University of Hawaii. You will leave inspired and educated about the rich culture of Okinawa.

TITLE: Hearing Uta-Sanshin: An Introduction to Appreciating Okinawa’s Main Musical Artform

TIME: October 14, 2005 (Friday); 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm

PLACE: Tokioka Room, Moore Hall 319 (located across the street from Center for Korean Studies); University of Hawaii at Manoa, 1890 East-West Road

SYNOPSIS: The origins of the Okinawan musical artform of uta-sanshin (song & sanshin) dates back about 500 years. In recent times, the tradition of playing sanshin (a three-stringed snakeskin cordaphone) and singing has become symbolic of the free-spirited nature of the Okinawan people and their island culture. Many people fail to realize, however, that under the simplistic melodies of uta-sanshin lies the heart of a resilient people who have beared centuries of suffering and insult. This lecture will provide an introduction to Okinawan music as a window into the world of Okinawan thought and culture.