Get Details and Tickets HERE!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/takohachi-kotori-kai-shamisen-4th-annual-recital-tickets-1996318217528

Experience the powerful, percussive sounds of the traditional Tsugaru shamisen with a live performance by the Kotori Kai Shamisen Trio. Featuring the collective talents of Yumi Torimaru, Kohei Kimura, and Truman Wilson, this special musical event showcases the rich lineage and vibrant contemporary spirit of traditional Japanese music.

Meet the Trio

• Yumi Torimaru: The founding director of both TAKOHACHI and the Kotori Kai Shamisen School. Yumi has spent decades cultivating and sharing Japanese folk performing arts across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

• Kohei Kimura: Along with Yumi, Kohei studies the traditional art of Tsugaru shamisen under the revered master Ryuhiro Oyama in Japan—head of the Oyama School, one of Japan's largest and most prestigious shamisen institutions.

• Truman Wilson: A dedicated student of Yumi Torimaru who is rapidly rising in the contemporary shamisen community.

A Special Preview

This concert also offers a brief sneak peek into an upcoming national showcase. Yumi and Truman have been chosen as select members of the ensemble "Waves of Harmony" to perform at JapanFest Atlanta on September 26–27, 2026. During this local show, the trio will perform a few select songs from that upcoming festival setlist!

Experience Japanese Culture through the Unique Sounds of MAIDO MIND, a captivating duo of Yumi Torimaru (shinobue and tsugaru shamisen) and Nozomi Imade (piano and voice), will introduce you to Japanese culture through their music. With a fascinating blend of instruments, MAIDO MIND is a must-see at the stunning Portland Japanese Garden.

This year marks Maido Mind’s 5th season performing at the Portland Japanese Garden, and our musical journey continues to grow in exciting ways. What began as an intimate duo of shinobue and piano/voice has now expanded with the addition of Tsugaru shamisen to our repertoire. With this new direction, Nozomi is also embracing the challenge of min’yō singing, bringing even more depth and color to our sound. We’re thrilled to share this evolving musical palette with Garden visitors and to keep exploring new possibilities together.

Their performance usually consists of two sets: the first begins at 1:15 p.m., and the second starts after a brief 10‑minute intermission.

10:00 am - 10:20 am: Opening Performance

10:30 am - 11:00 am: Bon Odori 1st set music accompaniment

TAKOHACHI has been performing for the Bridge Pedal about 15 years?! Yes! We will again perform for it. Details TBD

Experience Japanese Culture through the Unique Sounds of MAIDO MIND, a captivating duo of Yumi Torimaru (shinobue and tsugaru shamisen) and Nozomi Imade (piano and voice), will introduce you to Japanese culture through their music. With a fascinating blend of instruments, MAIDO MIND is a must-see at the stunning Portland Japanese Garden.

This year marks Maido Mind’s 5th season performing at the Portland Japanese Garden, and our musical journey continues to grow in exciting ways. What began as an intimate duo of shinobue and piano/voice has now expanded with the addition of Tsugaru shamisen to our repertoire. With this new direction, Nozomi is also embracing the challenge of min’yō singing, bringing even more depth and color to our sound. We’re thrilled to share this evolving musical palette with Garden visitors and to keep exploring new possibilities together.

Their performance usually consists of two sets: the first begins at 1:15 p.m., and the second starts after a brief 10‑minute intermission.

Artful Vessels: Sake Tasting featuring the Ceramic Collection of Richard Anderson

Tickets are sold on Portland Japanese Garden’s website.

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

Takohachi Q Ensemble is thrilled to return for a second performance at the beautiful Mingus Park, sponsored by the Coos Bay Public Library. Set to take place at the Mingus Park Amphitheater on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM, this high-energy, family-friendly show will feature traditional taiko drums, shinobue bamboo flutes, tsugaru shamisen, and more.

About the Performance

Takohachi's small ensemble—Toko Q—brings the vibrant energy of Japanese music and heritage to the stage. Known for an eclectic, interactive, and engaging set, the performance will feature:

• Dynamic Instruments: Resonant taiko drums, the three-stringed tsugaru shamisen, and the soaring melodies of the shinobue bamboo flute.

• Traditional Dances: Authentic choreographies from Japan’s rich history.

• Audience Interaction: Engaging musical moments perfect for all ages.

Families are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs, pack a picnic, and settle into the park for this free community event.

Experience Japanese Culture through the Unique Sounds of MAIDO MIND, a captivating duo of Yumi Torimaru (shinobue and tsugaru shamisen) and Nozomi Imade (piano and voice), will introduce you to Japanese culture through their music. With a fascinating blend of instruments, MAIDO MIND is a must-see at the stunning Portland Japanese Garden.

This year marks Maido Mind’s 5th season performing at the Portland Japanese Garden, and our musical journey continues to grow in exciting ways. What began as an intimate duo of shinobue and piano/voice has now expanded with the addition of Tsugaru shamisen to our repertoire. With this new direction, Nozomi is also embracing the challenge of min’yō singing, bringing even more depth and color to our sound. We’re thrilled to share this evolving musical palette with Garden visitors and to keep exploring new possibilities together.

Their performance usually consists of two sets: the first begins at 1:15 p.m., and the second starts after a brief 10‑minute intermission.

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

TAKOHACHI & Kotori Kai Shamisen’s special Ensemble will perform 4 times at Fuji to Hood!

Tentative Schedules:

3pm Outdoor

3:30pm Indoor

4:30Pm Outdoor

5:30pm Indoor

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

10:45am11:15am/11:45am~12:15pm 2 sets

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

There will be two shows at 9:30am and 11am

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

There will be two shows at 9:30am and 11am

Takohachi Duo invites kids and families to enjoy a joyful Storytelling with Music program. ;)

This is the world premier of our 2nd Kamishibai with Music Program: The Matsuri Festival: A Tale of the Moon Rabbit and the Nine-Tailed Fox.

1st set from1:30pm to 2pm. 2nd set from 3:10pm to 3:40pm

The Redd, 831 SE Salmon St, Portland

The 2nd annual event celebrates real wasabi and its culinary versatility with food tastings, saké pairings, and demonstrations, along with an energetic set by TAKOHACHI!

Experience Japanese Culture through the Unique Sounds of MAIDO MIND, a captivating duo of Yumi Torimaru (shinobue and tsugaru shamisen) and Nozomi Imade (piano and voice), will introduce you to Japanese culture through their music. With a fascinating blend of instruments, MAIDO MIND is a must-see at the stunning Portland Japanese Garden.

This year marks Maido Mind’s 5th season performing at the Portland Japanese Garden, and our musical journey continues to grow in exciting ways. What began as an intimate duo of shinobue and piano/voice has now expanded with the addition of Tsugaru shamisen to our repertoire. With this new direction, Nozomi is also embracing the challenge of min’yō singing, bringing even more depth and color to our sound. We’re thrilled to share this evolving musical palette with Garden visitors and to keep exploring new possibilities together.

Their performance usually consists of two sets: the first begins at 1:15 p.m., and the second starts after a brief 10‑minute intermission.

Maido Mind, with a special guest, Kohei, is back for the Student Recital 2026! We will perform 2 songs to open the recital at 1 pm!

*Because of the unexpected weather forecast (rain, potential thunder and lightning), the Big Paddle Waterfront Festival has been canceled.

Cheering on the paddlers with the spirit of Japanese festival music

Takohachi is thrilled to return to the Big Paddle Waterfront Festival in Ridgefield, where we’ve had the joy of performing for the past several years. Our taiko drums, shinobue bamboo flutes, and shamisen bring the vibrant spirit of Japanese festival music to the waterfront, creating an energizing soundtrack as paddlers launch, return, and celebrate together.

Our role at Big Paddle is simple and joyful: to cheer on the paddlers, lift the energy of the crowd, and help create a festive atmosphere for this beloved community event. The powerful rhythms of taiko and the bright, soaring sound of the shinobue have become a familiar part of the festival morning, and we’re honored to support Ridgefield’s outdoor traditions through music.

Private reception — this dinner is not open to the public. There are many great workshops available; please check the event website for details.

Calvin and Jin are guest musicians for:

BRAVO Community Orchestra is pleased to present our 2026 May Concert at Roosevelt High School Auditorium.

BRAVO Community Orchestra is North Portland’s own symphony orchestra under the baton of Maestro Giancarlo Castro D’Addona. The musician roster consists of current and former BRAVO Youth Orchestra students along with community members of all ages. It is truly a representation of North Portland on the BCO stage.

Experience Japanese Culture through the Unique Sounds of MAIDO MIND, a captivating duo of Yumi Torimaru (shinobue and tsugaru shamisen) and Nozomi Imade (piano and voice), will introduce you to Japanese culture through their music. With a fascinating blend of instruments, MAIDO MIND is a must-see at the stunning Portland Japanese Garden.

This year marks Maido Mind’s 5th season performing at the Portland Japanese Garden, and our musical journey continues to grow in exciting ways. What began as an intimate duo of shinobue and piano/voice has now expanded with the addition of Tsugaru shamisen to our repertoire. With this new direction, Nozomi is also embracing the challenge of min’yō singing, bringing even more depth and color to our sound. We’re thrilled to share this evolving musical palette with Garden visitors and to keep exploring new possibilities together.

Their performance usually consists of two sets: the first begins at 1:15 p.m., and the second starts after a brief 10‑minute intermission.

Private school event — no public admission.

Oregon Rises Above Hate Free Admission Day

Saturday, May 2, 2025 | 5:00 PM

Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland, OR

Join Takohachi for a powerful taiko ensemble performance as part of Lan Su Chinese Garden’s free community celebration in partnership with Oregon Rises Above Hate (ORAH).

Experience the thunderous energy of Japanese taiko drumming in the stunning setting of Lan Su’s classical garden — a fitting meeting of cultural traditions rooted in community, resilience, and joy.

Admission is FREE — no tickets required. Doors open at noon with cultural performances and AANHPI community resources throughout the afternoon.

Part of the annual Oregon Rises Above Hate gathering, celebrating the strength and diversity of the AANHPI community.

We are delighted to offer a special cultural experience for Portland Japanese Garden volunteers: a live performance and hands‑on workshop led by Yumi Torimaru, founder of Takohachi and Kotori Kai Shamisen.

The program begins with a musical performance featuring Tsugaru shamisen and shinobue, showcasing the vibrant energy and expressive sound of these traditional Japanese instruments. Following the performance, volunteers are invited to participate in a beginner‑friendly shinobue workshop, where Yumi will introduce the history, cultural background, and playing techniques of the Japanese bamboo flute.

This workshop is offered exclusively to Garden volunteers.