Yoko Hiraoka
Concert Performance
Yoko Hiraoka weaves medieval storytelling with performed music and images in her lecture/recital on the history of the Biwa instrument and the Tale of Heike.
This 80 minute recital is of interest to Asian Studies students as well as the general public. Ms. Hiraoka talks about the origins of the Biwa tradition of sung stories, the instrument itself and the historical context in which the stories emerged. The Tale of Heike is a collection of legends/events stemming from the 12th Century conflicts between the two clans, the Heike and the Genji in feudal Japan. The story excerpts are full of daring deeds, heroic warriors, tragic love and Samurai codeof Bushido (honor). Ms. Hiraoka's stage presentation is a powerful and engaging look into the early history of Japan.
Solo Concert with Koto, Shamisen
Yoko Hiraoka performs a variety of music, both classical and 20th Century Japanese compostions for koto and shamisen, as well as the singing voice. The koto sound is one of the most familarly Japanese experiences and much beautiful solo music exists, going as far back as the 17th Century.