Yoko S Tutor Profile
This tutor is currently on leave.
My name is Yoko! I'm so happy that you're intersts in Okinawan Sanshin brought you to my page! I started to take Sanshin lessons right after I saw a peformance at local Jyugoya festival when I was in the 4th grade. That was turning point in my life for music.
I graduated from Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts in Okinawa, Japan as a Ryukyuan Peforming Arts Major focused on Ryukyuan Classical music. I also received my teaching certification in Ryukyu Minyou (Pop/folklore) from Ryukyu Koku Minyou Association. I currently live in Washington State and peformed at the Asian Pacific Cultural Center, the Japan Fair in Bellevue, the Sakura "Cherry Blossom" festival in Seattle, and various smaller venues throughout the state. I have tutored juniors and adults in both the United States and Japan, and have volunteered for many years to play at nursing homes in Okinawa.
I listen to Okinawan music and play Sanshin when I'm homesick or feeling down. I believe that both the Okinawan musical scale and the sanshin's sound release vibrations that produce relaxation and healing. I think many people who are intersted in Sanshin are atracted by these sounds and vibrations.
I offer a customized approch to teaching at the student's pace and meeting their goals.
I look forward to meeting new students, and I really enjoy teaching and playing the sanshin!