Role

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Performer

Country

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Japan

Genre

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Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Film

 

Kinshi Tsuruta is a renowned classical music artist from Japan, known for her exceptional skills in playing the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Born on December 25, 1943, in Tokyo, Japan, Tsuruta grew up in a family of musicians. Her father, Tadao Tsuruta, was a famous koto player, and her mother, Kikue Tsuruta, was a singer. Tsuruta's parents recognized her musical talent at a young age and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. Tsuruta began her musical training at the age of five, studying the koto under her father's guidance. She quickly showed a natural aptitude for the instrument and began performing in public at the age of six. Tsuruta's father was a strict teacher, and she spent many hours practicing every day to perfect her technique. Despite the rigorous training, Tsuruta developed a deep love for the koto and the traditional music of Japan. In 1961, Tsuruta graduated from the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, where she studied under the renowned koto player Tadao Sawai. After graduation, Tsuruta began performing professionally, quickly gaining a reputation as one of the most talented koto players in Japan. She also began teaching the koto, passing on her knowledge and love of the instrument to a new generation of musicians. Tsuruta's career took off in the 1970s, when she began performing internationally. She toured extensively throughout Europe, the United States, and Asia, captivating audiences with her virtuosic playing and deep understanding of traditional Japanese music. Tsuruta's performances were often accompanied by other traditional Japanese instruments, such as the shakuhachi (a bamboo flute) and the shamisen (a three-stringed instrument). One of Tsuruta's most memorable performances was at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea. She was invited to perform at the opening ceremony, where she played a traditional Japanese piece on the koto. The performance was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world, and Tsuruta received widespread acclaim for her beautiful playing. Throughout her career, Tsuruta has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to traditional Japanese music. In 1985, she was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon by the Japanese government for her outstanding achievements in the arts. In 1993, she was named a Living National Treasure of Japan, a prestigious title given to individuals who have made significant contributions to traditional Japanese culture. Tsuruta has also recorded many albums throughout her career, showcasing her mastery of the koto and traditional Japanese music. Some of her most popular albums include "Koto Recital," "Koto Music of Japan," and "Koto Music of the Edo Period." Her recordings have been praised for their technical excellence and emotional depth, and have introduced traditional Japanese music to audiences around the world. In addition to her musical career, Tsuruta has also been involved in promoting cultural exchange between Japan and other countries. She has participated in many international music festivals and has collaborated with musicians from a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Tsuruta has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of traditional Japanese music, working to ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate and perform this important cultural heritage. Today, Kinshi Tsuruta is considered one of the greatest koto players of all time.

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