Author Archives: shohashi

Profiles of Giants of the Ryukyuan Music Performing Arts ⑤ Chouki Yakabi (1716-1775) The father of Ryukyu Musical Scores Chouki Yakabi was born January 19th, 1719, in Shuri, the capitol city of the Ryukyu kingdom, the 4th son of (Anji) … Continue reading →

Profiles of Giants of the Ryukyuan Music Performing Arts ④ Aka Inko (late 1400`s – mid 1500`s?) The origins of the Ryukyuan, or Okinawan Uta-Sanshin is Akainko. Some refute him ever being an actual person, but only myth. He is … Continue reading →

In this series of articles on Ryukyuan Performing Arts, specifically Music, We will study the historical context/environment of Ryukyu, and the people who’s ‘enhancements` left a profound impact on the society. A society which is the birthing ground for great … Continue reading →

Profiles of Giants of the Ryukyuan Music Performing Arts ③ Tamagusuku Chokun (1684 – 1734) The father of the Kumi Udui, or classical Ryukyuan Theater was born in Shuri in 1684. He was sent by Shuri with a delegation to … Continue reading →

Profiles of Giants of the Ryukyuan Music Performing Arts ② Tansui Uekata (1623 – 1683) Born in Shuri, at age 15 he became an envoy to Satsuma’s court. While he was in Kagoshima, he excelled at the studies of singing, … Continue reading →

Profiles of Giants of the Ryukyuan Music Performing Arts ① Haneji Choshu or Sho Jo Ken, a prince of the ryukyu kingdom was born in 1617. He became one of the most influential persons of the Ryukyuan 17th century. With … Continue reading →

Hello All, I will be contributing a series of entries on Okinawa; many of which have to do with Ryukyuan/Okinawan Music. Anyone familiar with music from Okinawa soon realizes that for such a small island, there sure is a wide … Continue reading →