The Kuricorder & Friends Asia 6-nation Music & Art Collaboration Project generates a new kind of creative expression and aims to develop cultural understanding and exchange through collaborations with artists from various countries in Southeast Asia. It also gives children in Southeast Asia the opportunity to experience the joy of playing musical instruments. As part of this project, a series of concerts and workshops will be held in Laos, Japan, Myanmar and Thailand. There will also be an off-program performance in Vietnam after those in Laos.
Performances in each region will feature a wide range of musical works from original pieces to old Japanese songs, as well as co-appearances with local artists. In Laos the Kuricorder Quartet will perform together with Khao Niew Theatre Group from Vientiane, a traditional instrument ensemble of lecturers from the National School of Music, and also a dance group from Children’s Cultural Center. The outstanding young Myanmar harp player Su Zar Zar is also scheduled to be invited to the concert in Japan.
Workshops will be given in Thailand and Myanmar by leading Japanese music educator and recorder player Minoru Yoshizawa, no doubt providing a valuable opportunity for local music educators.