Learn a Japanese
traditional musical
instrument, koto.
Learn a Japanese
traditional musical
instrument, koto.
The koto originated in China and was introduced to Japan around the seventh century. The beautiful sound of koto has been winning Japanese hearts down through the ages.
Today, 1300 years later, this instrument has evolved from an archaic stringed instrument for accompaniment into an unique Asian instrument able to play various kinds of music together with other instruments: strings, keyboard, woodwind, and so on. Anyone can learn koto. Trial lessons are available any time.
SCHEDULE
Monday to Saturday
From 10:00 to 20:00
60 minutes one-on-one or group lessons
MONTHLY FEE
◆ 8,000yen, including 4 lessons per month
◆ 4,000yen, including 2 lessons per month
◆ Lessons for visitors for 5,000yen each
REGISTRATION FEE
A 8,000yen joining fee is required for plectrum and scores.
TRIAL LESSON
Trial lessons are available any time for free. Don't worry if you feel uncomfortable sitting on the floor Japanese style, we can provide you with a chair. Please email me for further information.
CONTACT
Email : sugiyamautaki@gmail.com
Sugiyama Utaki
Koto, Sangen, Jushichigen performer
Master the Ikuta style
Q: Are the trial lessons one-on-one?
A: It is okay for one person or multiple people.
Q: Can children take a trial lesson?
A: It is okay for children of elementary school age and above.
Q: Can I try out instruments other than the koto?
A: You can also try out the shamisen and 17-string koto.
Q: Can I experience this without sitting on the floor?
A: Either sitting on the tatami floor or on a chair is fine.
Q: Is there any equipment I should bring?
A: Everything is included so there is nothing.
Q: Do I have to join after trying it out?
A: Entry is free and there is no obligation.
Q: Is there parking?
A: There is free parking on-site and nearby.
Q: Is there access from public transport?
A: If you use the bus or JR, we will provide transportation.
Q: Can I cancel my reservation?
A: Please let us know by email the day before.
Q: Are the lessons one-on-one?
A: There are one-on-one and group ensemble sessions.
Q: Can I rent an instrument?
A: You can rent everything except the koto plectrum and sheet music.
Q: What kind of songs do you practice in class?
A: You can freely choose from classical music, modern music, anime, etc.
Q: Do I have to buy a koto?
A: To study for a long time, you need your own instrument.
Q: Where can I buy a koto?
A: We will introduce you to a reliable and high-quality koto within your budget.
Q: Will there be a recital?
A: There are fun concerts both big and small which are open to everyone.
Q: Can I take lessons on instruments other than the koto?
A: You can also choose to take lessons in shamisen or jushichigen.
Q: Do I have to get a diploma?
A: It's up to you, but having a goal will help you improve faster.
Q: Can I get a koto teacher's licence and a pseudonym?
A: You can get your pseudonym by becoming an associate instructor.
DOJO
ICHION
5294-101 Hongo, Chosei
Chosei District, Chiba
299-4345 Japan
"Music" is written as "enjoying the sounds" in kanji, but practice is sometimes painful and has a rigid image. How can we find "fun" and "enjoyment"? Everyone has different expectations and goals for practice. Please let us know your wishes, such as the pace of practice and the songs you would like to play. ICHION's motto is to challenge new things while remembering the important things, even if they are old. Anyone is welcome to come, regardless of school or experience. International visitors interested in the koto are also welcome. We hope you will have an experience where the sound of one note penetrates your heart, like a drop of water drawing a ring on the surface of the water. "one note" is written as "ichi on" in kanji and that is where our school name comes from.
Born in Hokkaido. At the age of 7, she was instantly captivated by the sound of the koto that she heard on her way home from school. As her parents were constantly transferred for work, she learned koto under various teachers of the Ikuta and Yamada schools wherever they moved . After entering the workforce, she obtained the Seiha Hogakukai Master's degree. She opened her own koto school in 2006, making use of her experience in events, workshops, Japanese music lectures, live shows, and regular concerts both in Japan and overseas. She finds joy in supporting people who are fascinated by the charms of the koto and presides over ICHION.