ten ten "ODORI NI TEN" April 6, 2013

Aki Takahashi, the founder of the traditional Japanese music group TEN TEN, has composed her latest pieces in collaboration with four Japanese dancers who draw inspiration from widely varying cultures: Kayo Yasuhara, the celebrated traditional Japanese dance artist from Montreal; Kiyo Asaoka who has dedicated herself to Flamenco since 1999; and Hiroshi Miyamoto, an internationally celebrated choreographer whose wide range of influences include Indian forms of dance.

The dancers will perform to music by TEN TEN, consisting of Takahashi on shamisen, taiko and vocals, and Heidi Chan on flute, vocals, percussion and taiko. Takahashi’s compositions this time were also written for the sitar and other non-Japanese instruments. Members of media are invited to witness this exciting performance resulting from a truly rare collaboration among artists and cultures.

This performance also celebrates the release of TEN TEN's second CD, entitled Ko-Banashi (short stories). “This CD also contains original work comprised of melodies and lyrics emerging organically from multicultural Toronto, transcending national and cultural boundaries,” says Takahashi. She adds that she and Chan have produced music unique to and inspired by the city they now call home.