Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia

Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival Kick-off Night

Step into a realm of sensory delight as you venture into the heart of Japanese culture at the Fallser Club! Enjoy the rhythmic beats of taiko drums, the melodic tones of Sanshin, a rare Okinawan musical instrument, and the enchanting plucks of the Koto, a traditional Japanese zither. Experience the lively Soran Bushi Dance, a Japanese sea shanty, and join in the chorus singing a cherry blossom song in Japanese. Be chanted by a special duo band curated exclusively for this Kick-off night.

As a final touch, immerse yourself in the intricate strokes and profound meaning of a unique Japanese calligraphy, adding a visual feast to this celebration of Japanese artistry and tradition. This Kick-off event is proudly sponsored by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, as part of the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the vibrant tapestry of Japanese music and culture!

Calligraphy exhibition by Ebihara Rogen

Ebihara Rogen’s calligraphy piece, featured in this event, is a testament to his unparalleled mastery of brushwork and profound artistic expression. Through precise strokes and captivating movements, Rogen breathes life into characters, conveying a depth of emotion and meaning that transcends linguistic barriers. His works are in the collections of the Canadian Museum of History, the Japanese Embassy in France, the Daming Temple in China, the Shaanxi Provincial Museum of History, the Italian Embassy in Japan, and the Hotel Gajoen in Tokyo. If you want to witness firsthand how Ebihara creates this masterpiece, please join us at the Cherry Blossom Festival at West Fairmount Park, where Rogen will be demonstrating his craft live.

Mirai Yasuyama (Koto)

Mirai Yasuyama (Koto) first learned the iconic Japanese instrument in Tokyo at the age of seven from her grandmother. After moving to Philadelphia in 1997, Mirai has been performing Koto at many venues throughout the greater Philadelphia region, including the Shofuso, Japanese House and Garden. Mirai is an architect and served on the board of directors at the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia since 2015.

Keystone Japan Club

Keystone Japan Club (Sōran Bushi Dance and Chorus) is a group of passionate local students, international students from various countries, teachers, and residents who love Japanese cultures in the Main Line area. They regularly practice and showcase Japanese dances and songs, with a mission to help make Philadelphia one of the most culturally rich cities in the nation.

KyoDaiko

KyoDaiko (Japanese drumming ensemble),  a community drumming ensemble rooted in the Philadelphia community, is driven by the passion for the art and the electrifying energy of the taiko drums. Founded in 2005, the group comprises dedicated volunteers who come from diverse backgrounds, united by a love for taiko. From traditional Japanese festivals to unique venues like roller derbies and dragon boat regattas, Kyodaiko’s performances resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. Through regular classes and workshops led by master teachers around the world, the ensemble continues to evolve and expand its repertoire, ensuring vibrant and enriching for both performers and spectators alike. 

http://kyodaiko.com/

Rino Aise

Rino Aise (Sanshin), a native of Japan, initially studied Minyo (Japanese folk songs) with Ryushu Kubota, widely regarded as the most important teacher of the Hokkaido Folk Song Federation. After mastering Sanshin, a unique instrument with intimate and historical relation to Minyo, Rino has become a prominent artist capable of singing and playing Sanshin for Minyo, Japanese anime, and American folk songs. Rino and her band have been performing in the New York metropolitan area, for important events at the invitation of such institutions as the Consulate General of Japan in New York.

https://www.rinoaise.com/

Sakura Duo

Sakura Duo (Hiroko Obukuro & Greg Davis), a specially formed band for the 2024 Cherry Blossom Festival, Kick-off event.

Greg Davis

Greg Davis, a seasoned guitar journeyman, has always let his music speak louder than words. From his early days playing in Philly’s vibrant music scene to captivating audiences in Japan, Davis’s dedication to his craft shines through. Alongside his Japanese wife, Michi, and his daughters Mizuki & Mia, Greg lived in Japan for seven years, immersing himself in the rich musical culture of the country. Having shared stages with local icons like Kenn Kweder and Beru Revue, Davis’s talent extends beyond borders and genres. With influences ranging from rock to jazz, his guitar prowess is unmatched. Whether gigging solo or jamming with friends, Davis’s passion for music remains undiminished. Now, as he continues to teach and perform, Davis’s musical legacy only grows stronger, leaving an indelible mark on every note he plays. 

Hiroko Obukuro

Hiroko Obukuro, a native of Saga, Japan, brings a rich cultural heritage to her music. Hiroko’s diverse musical background, spanning Okinawan tunes, blues and jazz, showcases her vocal versatility. Having performed at many blues festivals in the Kyushu region of Japan, she has captivated audiences with her soulful performances. Beyond the stage, she shares her passion as a dedicated teacher at the Japanese Language School of Philadelphia.  

Parking in East Falls is no problem! There is ample free on-street parking near the East Falls train station driveway at 3610 Midvale Ave and a paid municipal lot three blocks away at 4100 Ridge Ave. Midvale Ave and Ridge Ave are both well-lit!