Jiuta were first heard in the early 17th century at private households and the entertainment districts around Kyoto and Osaka. Handed down by blind male musicians, this music rapidly flourished among the rising urban and literate classes during the Edo period. The fine timbre and subtle lyricism of Jiuta have been cultivated since then, creating an intimate relationship between the performers and the audience. The Jiuta concert is the 100th. For this commemorative performance, a total of 18 pieces will be performed with 20 supporting performers ranging from living national treasures who have appeared in previous concerts in the series to performers from the younger generation.
Akiko Fujimoto
Akiko Fujimoto, the foremost performer of jiuta and sōkyoku, is daughter of the renowned Ningen Kokuhō (Living National Treasure) Kunie Fujii. Her family has passed on this historically influential and artistic music which has survived over 300 years, and her highly artistic style of singing embodies the world of jiuta. Her haunting voice has achieved acclaim both in Japan and abroad. She had performed in many countries, including the USA, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Switzerland and Australia. She has received a number of awards, including “Musician of a new generation” from the Agency of Cultural Affairs, special recognition from the Japan Traditional Cultures Foundation and Pola Traditional Cultures Foundation.Shizukikai.
AKIKO FUJIMOTO
Jiuta Sokyoku Performer
3-10-13, Himonya, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
150-0003
Tel：+81-(0)3- 3716-6716
Fax：+81-(0)3- 3716-2110
E-mail：akikof@tc4.so-net.ne.jp
YOMIURI Otemachi Hall, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
