MP3 Michael Chikuzen Gould - Michael Gould2: Tradition and Beyond
Traditional and original music performed on shakuhachi and percussion.
12 MP3 Songs in this album (47:47) !
Related styles: WORLD: Japanese contemporary, FOLK: Alternative Folk
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Details:
This CD consists of 12 pieces recorded in 2001 by Michael Gould, master of shakuhachi, and Michael Gould, percussionist. The duo performs traditional Japanese music as well as original compositions using western and non-western percussion instruments, and shakuhachi, the Japanese bamboo flute. Both Michael Goulds lived in Japan for long periods of time and are musicians with a passion for Japanese music.
The compositions that are included in this CD have all started as images created by the players. Most of these images were taken from their collective experiences in Japan.
Shakuhachi, the zen bamboo flute of Japan, was introduced into Japan from China in the 8th century. It was used by mendicant monks, called Komuso, or "priests of nothingness", as a spiritual tool in the middle ages. Playing the shakuhachi was a form of meditation and a way of life.
Michael Chikuzen Gould lived in Japan from 1980 to 1997 and studied shakuhachi under renowned masters Taniguchi Yoshinobu and Yokoyama Katsuya. Gould earned a “Shihan” (Master of Shakuhachi) in 1987 and was given the name “Chikuzen.” In 1994, he became one of only a handful of non-Japanese to hold the title of “Dai Shihan” (Grand Master of Shakuhachi). After returning to the U.S., Chikuzen taught Zen Buddhism and shakuhachi at the University of Michigan, Oberlin College, and Wittenberg University.
One of the most prolific performers outside of Japan, Chikuzen has presented over 500 solo concerts and has also played with traditional Japanese music ensembles, Taiko drumming groups, Chinese harp and pipe organ. He appeared in the world premiere of the opera “Madame Butterfly” using Japanese instruments, performed Karl Jenkins’ “Requiem” with the Metropolitan Detroit Chorale, and provided the music for the prestigious Dance Company of Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan in a presentation of the works of Mary Cassatte.
Michael Gould, percussionist, is an assistant professor of music at the University of Michigan, and has received international recognition as a performer and scholar in the field of contemporary percussion performance and pedagogy. Having served for several years as percussion specialist at Huis Ten Bosch European resort in Nagasaki, Japan, Michael has performed with leading artists and performing groups from around the world, including pan pipe virtuoso "Boogsie" Sharpe and Brazil''s Sao Paulo All-Stars.
Michael has toured nationally as percussionist/drumset specialist with the performing group The Dallas Brass and can also be heard on the Seabreeze label with jazz artist Miles Osland. He has played with Marvin Stamm and Al Vizutti at the international Trumpet Guild and as percussionist for the national tour of "Big," the musical. Gould currently performs with Michael "Chikuzen" Gould and three other groups: Quartex, Timescape and Facing East. These bands are dedicated to free-improvisation and the blending of music from other cultures.