Tsugaru Syamisen
ANMITSU |
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| Yuka ANNAKA and Kumi KINDAICHI |
Profile
Yuka Annaka, prize winner at a number of Tsugaru-syamisen competitions, and Kumi Kindaichi, also a folk singer, formed the duo Anmitsu in 1999. Since that time, the group has performed over 50 times a year, holding concerts and live performances, and playing at educational institutions. In 1999, they played at the Yoron Okinawa Music Festival. The duo subsequently performed live numerous times around Okinawa as well as for media outlets Ryukyu Broadcasting and FM Okinawa, among others. In 2000, they launched their Hokkaido Tour, organized by the Hokkaido Toma Cultural Society. In 2001, they made an appearance in the New Year ' s concert on Tokyo FM ' s “ FM Sofia ” radio program. They also appeared regularly with Fei Jianrong (Chinese dasanxian) and Yukito Ara (Okinawa sanshin) in “ Okinawa Sangen Zanmai ” a series of concerts sponsored by Asahi Breweries from 2001 to 2003, touring Okinawa cities, Tokyo , Ehime and elsewhere. In 2003 the duo performed at reception welcoming the president of Indonesia put on by Prime Minister Koizumi.
Their first performance overseas was at a concert in Myanmar , the Japan Festival at Yangon National Theater. In 2002, the duo performed at a concert in London entitled “ The Power, Spirit and Beauty of Japanese Music ” . In the same year, Anmitsu performed in the Japanese Music in China concert organized by the Japan Foundation and a concert in Korea entitled “ Tsugaru Syamisen vs. Nagauta Syamisen ” organized by the Japanese Embassy in South Korea to commemorate the Year of Japan-Korea National Exchange. In 2003, they performed a number of times overseas, including the 12 th World Gymnaestrada in Lisbon as well as another concert in Portugal entitled “ Mind-blowing Japanese Night! ”
Overseas Performances
Their performances consist of original compositions based on events they have witnessed while playing both at home and overseas. They utilize traditional playing techniques, as well as traditional songs brimming with speed and power like “ Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi ” , which showcases Kindaichi ' s considerable vocal talents. They also hold workshops where they discuss playing techniques and the history of the Tsugaru-Syamisen and provide the participants direct experience with the instruments.
