Fredonia Academy Week in June offers the community a unique experience to explore festival music of Japan

The Fredonia School of Music will present Academy Week: Festival Music of Japan, on June 19-23, with expert instruction in the Wakayama-Shachu style of Edo Bayashi festival music and Shishimai, a Japanese traditional lion dance that is performed at many ritual events to bring good luck to communities and chase away evil.

Participants will learn to play shimedaiko and odaiko drum rhythms, shinobue melodies, and atarigane patterns, as well as the unique dance movements of the shishimai.

Instructor Eien Hunter-Ishikawa is a champion of traditional Japanese cultural arts who works to build awareness, provide education, and demonstrate value through performances around North America and beyond. Organizers note that he strives to help people connect through meaningful cultural exchange and understanding.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) credit is available, and opportunities are available for beginners through advanced musicians.

Campus housing and Meal Plans are available, if needed. Register for a full-day or evenings only.

For more information, contact Dr. Kay Stonefelt via email 

For more information on the academy, go to the event website.