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Abeya Tsugaru-Shamisen US Tour Celebrating the Japan-US Cherry Blossom Centennial Denver Concert(4/17/2012)
On Tuesday, April 15th, approximately 250 people including Denver Mayor Michael Hancock attended a concert by the Japanese Tsugaru-Shamisen group "Abeya", held at the City of Denver's Wellington Webb Building. The event was part of a celebration of the Centennial Anniversary of the gift of cherry blossom trees from Japan to the US, 100 years ago.
“Abeya” is on a US tour, which is sponsored by the Japan Foundation, and the concert in Denver was made possible with cooperation from Arts and Venues, Denver and the Consulate-General of Japan at Denver.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock made opening remarks to start the event, referring to the importance of person-to-person exchanges and mutual understanding between the peoples of Japan and the US.
Consul-General Ono also spoke on the background of the centennial commemoration and the history of Japan-US relations, and wished for continuing friendship between the peoples of Japan and the US for years to come.
Following these remarks, “Abeya” began their performance. They played traditional Japanese folk music, including such favorites as "Tsugaru Jongara Bushi" and "Kuroishi Yosare Bushi."
During their performance of "Kyoku Biki Gassen" (a speed-playing competition), the audience was truly impressed by their technique and gave a huge round of applause.
About 20 volunteers from the audience joined in a traditional fisherman's dance at the stage, along with the Mayor and Consul-General, to the tune of "Sohran Bushi", creating a very friendly atmosphere within the concert hall.
“Abeya” performed a total of 11 songs, playing for about an hour and half, while the audience gathered at the venue heartily enjoyed the concert.