Ensemble Workshop by ASATO-PAIS
Ensemble Workshop for Instrumentalists
"Typical Orchestra Workshop - Introduction to Tango"
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.
"Typical Orchestra Workshop - Introduction to Tango"
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of tango with this workshop designed for musicians of all levels. Over two days, we will explore the technical, stylistic, and ensemble fundamentals of the orquesta típica, combining theory and practice in a collaborative environment.
Date : Saturday, April 5th, 2025 10:00 - 14:30 (3.5-hour workshop)
Sunday, April 6th, 2025 10:00 - 12:30 (2.5-hour workshop)
Venue
April 5th : In a studio in Fukuoka (Defined depending on the number of participants.)
April 6th : Nishitetsu Hall
Instruments:
Piano, Bandoneon, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
(For other instruments, please contact us.)
Participation for piano is limited to 4 people (priority will be given to those attending both days).
The 4 participants will practice all 4 pieces, and the workshop will progress using a single piano on a rotational basis. In the opening performance, each participant will play one piece in the concert.
Participation Options
• Active musicians :
Full participation in the workshop and, optionally, in the final concert.
• Observers:
Access to all workshop activities and the concert, attending as spectators without playing an instrument.
Level : No prior experience in tango required.
Participation Fee
• 2-day (Total 6 hours) : 17,000 yen
• Day 1 only (3.5 hours) : 10,000 yen (Participation in the performance is not allowed)
• Observers : 2-day 8,500 yen / 1-day 5,000 yen
Program :
Day 1: Saturday, April 5
• Technical foundations of the genre:
An introduction to elements such as marcato, syncopation, bordoneo, 3-3-2 rhythm, yumba, phrasing, articulation, ornaments, and effects.
• Styles of the 1940s:
A general overview of the distinctive characteristics of orchestras such as Troilo, Di Sarli, Pugliese, and D’Arienzo.
• Theoretical and practical class:
All participants will work with their instruments while practicing the examples discussed in class.
Day 2: Sunday, April 6
• Ensemble and repertoire:
Joint interpretation of four tango arrangements.
** Pianists will rotate during rehearsals so that everyone can participate in each piece.
• Format:
All musicians will play together, with breaks for specific observations on the ensemble or individual instruments.
Workshop Closing Concert
The workshop will conclude with a concert featuring the tangos worked on, serving as a final showcase. Participation in this concert is optional; those who do not wish or are unable to participate are still welcome to attend the workshop sessions.
Sunday, April 6th, 13:00 (following the workshop).
Nishitetsu Hall
Languages Used:
Spanish or English (Japanese interpretation available)
Study Materials
Sheet music will be provided in PDF format one month before the workshop so participants can prepare in advance.
Methodology
This workshop emphasizes collective learning, allowing all musicians to explore the essence of the genre through a practical and dynamic approach.
Sign up and experience the unique opportunity to be part of an orquesta típica!
Registration
You can buy the ticket for WS by using the current management system, called “My Page”.
Through this system, all entries will be ticketless. (Please show us the barcode in your smartphone.)
Additionally, once you create the account in “My Page”, you just log-in and buy the next events tickets easily.
(How to register on My Page)
After registering for your My Page, please purchase your desired participation ticket using the button below.
** For those who wish to participate on the piano, there are limited spots available for 4 people, so please make a reservation in advance by email or phone. Only those who have made a prior reservation will be able to purchase a workshop ticket.
Phone: 092-762-4100
Email: sakuratangofestival@tiempo.jp
Contact
Phone: 092-762-4100
Email: sakuratangofestival@tiempo.jp
Contact Form
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.