2024 Kenpi Program Student Efforts [Karen Okuda]
12:13 PM
1.Self Introduction
Name: Karen Okuda
Nationality: Australia (Sydney)
Roots: Gushikawa (Uruma), Miyako, Amami Oshima
Training location: Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts (Sanshin)
Is it true?!:
In Sydney, a strange-looking bird called the ibis is everywhere.
They are always searching through rubbish, so they’re nicknamed the bin chicken!
2. What are you studying in Okinawa?
I came to Okinawa to study sanshin at the Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts. In Sydney I was mostly learning folk music, but at the university I am learning traditional classical sanshin in Nomura style. I’m also taking theory classes in Ryukyuan history, cultural studies and music theory. I especially think that learning about the Ryuka poetry that make up the lyrics to the sanshin songs will help me become a better performer! I am a Ryukyuan traditional arts major, so I am also taking classes in Ryukyuan dance.
3. What are your goals after returning home?
When I return to Australia, I would like to try jikata (traditional live music accompaniment) for the Sydney Eisa team, Eisa Champroo. As there are still a lot of people in Australia who don’t know about Okinawa, I will do my best to educate more people about our culture through Eisa and Ryukyuan music. I would also love to collaborate with other cultural groups like First Nations dance troupes and Chinese and Vietnamese lion dancing teams to create stronger relationships within the local community. And of course, help to make the Sydney Kenjinkai even bigger and better than it already is!
Image designed by Karen Okuda and Mayumi Tamashiro, Kenpi Program Student
