Hiroshi Yamaguchi Tsugaru Shamisen Concert

In the spirit of Japan-Canada cross cultural relations the Consulate-General of Japan in Calgary organized the Hiroshi Yamaguchi Tsugaru Shamisen Concert, with local guest saxophonist Mr. Simon MacLeod, held at the National Music Centre on September 8th, 2015.

Consul General Ryosaku Tamura offered opening remarks to a large audience anticipating the unique sounds of the Tsugaru Shamisen. In the first half Mr. Yamaguchi then performed 8 solo pieces, describing to the audience the mood, significance and history of each, after which he introduced Mr. Simon MacLeod, an up-and-coming local Calgary saxophonist with a flare for musical collaborations and experimentation. To the delight of the audience, Mr. MacLeod performed a haunting solo on the saxophone, which was followed by 3 impromptu collaborative pieces with Mr. Yamaguchi in which both the saxophone and Tsugaru Shamisen worked in harmony for a unique and enticing sound.

The performance was a great success, with the audience calling for an encore, to which Mr. Yamaguchi responded with an exceptionally fast-paced, thrilling piece thoroughly enjoyed by all.