Artist Profile
CHOUFUU YANAI
Mr.Chofuu Yanai has learned "Koto" (Ikuta-ryuu)instrument at 6 years old and "Syakuhachi" (Kinko-ryuu)instrument at 8 years old. Afterthen, he studied Voice Singing, Conductor, Music Composition and work as main conductor of various group of Ensemble and Chorus. He also founded "Yanai Japanese Traditional Music Academy" for the purpose of Japanese Culture enlightenment and transferring activity to international society. He is acting world widely as performer of traditional instruments like Koto, Syamisen, Syakuhachi and composer of Traditional music. In 1974, starting from Europe Concert, he performed his concert in USA, Canada, Oceania, Asia, East Europe, North Europe, Former Soviet Union etc. by invitation of official culture authority of each country. Now visiting countries reached over 40 counties and over 80 concerts. In February 2002, he got "International Academy Award" as first Japanese performer, in July 2003, he received "Honorary Doctorate" from university of USA by evaluating high value of international social activity, in October 2003, also received a "Prize of International Cultural Merits" from Japan-England Friendship Association. Currently as master of "Yanai Japanese Traditional Music Academy", he is continuing social activities to enlightenment and transfer of Japanese Culture by having various concert opportunities and also visiting foreign countries. The regular conductor of Chofuu Ensemble and Yanai Chamber Ensemble, the executive of supervisor with Yajima Group Co.,Ltd., the Japanese representative manager of Harvard Buddhist Studies Forum., and Kokushikan university visiting professor.