The SHAKUHACHI 5: Japanese New Music

A unique concert, which will take place as part of the International Shakuhachi Festival in Prague 2025, will offer a unique opportunity to hear Japanese music.

The Shakuhachi 5, composed of five outstanding shakuhachi players – Akihito Obama, Kizan Kawamura, Reison Kuroda, Akihiso Kominato, and Kenichi Taji – will present a wide range of Japanese musical traditions and experiments. Each of these masters comes from a different direction and school of shakuhachi, which brings richness and depth to the ensemble pieces. A fundamental concept in Japanese music is MA, which refers not only to the physical space between players and listeners but also to the space in musical expression. This "empty space," which is so important for the perception of music, is a key element that shapes the atmosphere and dynamics of each musical work. The ensemble The Shakuhachi 5 masterfully works with this space, creating unique compositions that allow listeners to perceive not only the sounds but also the silence that exists between them. The concert will feature pieces that have been commissioned by The Shakuhachi 5, showcasing internationally recognized composers whose works are rather rarely performed in the Czech Republic. This program offers a fascinating insight into contemporary Japanese music, which combines traditional instruments and modern compositional techniques. The evening will also include a new audiovisual piece by Miroslav Srnka and filmmaker Marek Matvija, created specifically for The Shakuhachi 5. The piece, inspired by Ukiyo-e woodblock prints from the collections of the National Gallery in Prague, will transport listeners into the world of Japanese art and its connection to music. This project is part of a broader international cycle that includes new audiovisual works in New York, Tokyo, and Prague. The Shakuhachi 5 is an ensemble that has attracted the attention of Japanese music critics since its inception. Its goal is not only to explore the boundaries of shakuhachi but also to collaborate with leading composers who represent Japanese music on the international stage. This concert is an opportunity to experience modern Japanese music, which is constantly evolving while remaining in deep dialogue with tradition.