Ensemble Workshop by ASATO-PAIS
Ensemble Workshop for Instrumentalists
To commemorate the 10th edition of the Sakura Tango Festival, we are planning a special project: a workshop for instrumentalists, organized with the invaluable cooperation of bandoneon player Yukie Kawanami, and led by the renowned tango duo ASATO-PAIS (pianist Cristian Asato and bandoneon player Agelén Pais).
Sakura Tango celebrates its 10th anniversary, and from the very beginning, special attention has been given to tango dance enthusiasts.
The danced tango, the milonga, the social space where people connect through dance – that incredible and unique communication achieved through this art form.
As we reach the 10th edition, we also aim to explore how to connect musicians interested in performing this genre. Starting with the next edition, and taking advantage of the presence of our guests, Asato-País, we wish to create a new space for communication through music. We hope that those who enjoy playing instruments will also have the opportunity to connect within the framework of Sakura Tango.
ASATO-PAIS is known for its globally recognized music education activities, catering to a wide range of musicians from tango beginners to experienced players. The duo has earned high acclaim for its clear teaching of tango styles and interpretations through unique audiovisual materials and lesson formats.
Participants in the workshop will have the opportunity to perform as the opening act for the ASATO-PAIS concert on April 6 (Sunday) at the Nishitetsu Hall. Through this project, the Sakura Tango Festival aims to deepen and enhance its relationships with musicians in the future.
Ensemble Workshop for Instrumentalists
This workshop is designed for musicians playing instruments from other genres who are interested in tango, as well as tango musicians who wish to deepen their knowledge.
Participants will acquire the skills necessary for ensemble performance. By practicing various arrangements, they will learn the fundamental styles and interpretive concepts of tango.
Instruments:
Piano, Bandoneon, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
(For other instruments, please contact us.)
Participation Requirements:
The pieces will be adjusted to match the participants' levels, and sheet music will be provided in advance to allow for preparation before the workshop.
Intermediate-level instrumental skills and the ability to read sheet music are required.
Attendance at the first session is mandatory.
Languages Used:
Spanish or English (Japanese interpretation available)
In preparation for the workshop, we would like to hear from those considering participation, and have created a brief survey.
The deadline for survey responses is set for December 20 (Friday). Based on the feedback from the survey, we will determine the specific date and time for the workshop, so we appreciate your cooperation.
ASATO PAÍS
ASATO-PAIS is one of the key figures in today’s tango scene in Argentina and around the world.The duo covers various branches of the genre, from the most traditional and danceable tango, to their own interpretations of Piazzolla's music, and even incorporating contemporary music works.
Ayelén and Cristián are also known for revolutionizing the way ducational content is created on YouTube. With a fresh and dynamic style, their videos have become a hallmark of modern tango.
Ayelén Pais: Bandoneon player
Originally from La Pampa, she has been residing in Buenos Aires since 2007. Considered one of the leading female bandoneonists, she is part of a generation that has successfully opened new professional opportunities for women.
She is a member of the cast of "El Querandí," the "Tango Legends" company, and also performs as a soloist at numerous events. In parallel with her artistic career, she creates educational material focused on new approaches to learning the bandoneon.
Cristián Asato: Pianist
Born in 1982 in Buenos Aires, he is currently one of the most renowned pianists of the new generation in tango. He serves as the musical director for the "Tango Legends" company and is a member of Víctor Lavallén's septet, the legendary bandoneonist from Osvaldo Pugliese's orchestra.
In addition to his work as a professional musician, he also works in the multimedia field, contributing creatively with digital tools to enhance music education.
This project is organized with the collaboration of bandoneon player Yukie Kawanami.
Yukie Kawanami
Born in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture. He is the winner of the 1st Che Bandoneon World Championship. She entered Tokyo College of Music from the Fukuoka Jogakuin Music Department. She studied piano, her major, at university, and learned the bandoneon outside of school. She met Eri Watanabe, a playwright and actress, and she appeared on the stage play "Ribon". Since then, she has co-starred with Hideki Saijo, Kenji Sawada, Tsurube Shofutei, and Tsuyoshi Ukaji. She also appeared in "Untitled Concert" and "New Window Open Kyushu.'' In the summer of 2020, she formed "Tango Three Sisters + " in her hometown of Fukuoka. In the summer of 2021, she won first place in the ensemble category at the "Astor Piazzolla International Music Competition Kanoha Torani 2021" held in Italy.