Autumn marks the beginning of the busy fall concert season. Following are a few recommended hogaku concerts in Tokyo in the upcoming weeks:
"Keisuke Zenyoji Performs Komuso-style Shakuhachi" -- The modern-day shakuhachi is an extremely versatile instrument, used in musical genres ranging from the classics to the avant-garde, jazz and pops. Nonetheless, it is the traditional shakuhachi honkyoku music -- originally meditations on sound played by komuso monks as they wandered the countryside -- that remains the most appealing. Few musicians have studied honkyoku pieces as thoroughly as Zenyoji. Although open to wide possibilities of individual interpretation, Zenyoji has found a balance between keeping the traditional Komuso honkyoku forms alive while infusing the music with his own sensibilities.
"Komu Jakuhachi," Aug. 31, 7 p.m. at Toppan Hall, (03) 5840-2200, 3,000 yen in advance, 3,500 yen at the door. For reservations or more information, call Zenyoji at (042) 924-0636.
The music of the Ainu has made a popular comeback over the last few years. One of the reasons for this is the work of Ainu singer Umeko Ando. She will present a concert of Ainu song at Tribute to the Love Generation in Odaiba to commemorate the release of her new CD, "IHUNKE." Joining her on stage will be the young Ainu musician Oki and jazz saxophonist Kazutoki Umezu. Music critic/announcer Peter Barakan will act as emcee.