Marisa Kosugi was exposed to Minyo-Japanese Folk Music through her mother, Matsutoyo Sato of MATSUTOYO KAI, who has been performing & instructing in the Northern & Southern California for over 40 years.
Marisa was always inspired by her mother's creativity and passion in the Japanese Arts. At the age of 21, Marisa decided to dedicate herself to Minyo and moved to Tokyo, Japan, in hopes to learn more about this unique Music, & the Japanese Culture under Madame Makiko Kosugi (Vocals, Shamisen* 3-String Banjo-Fujimoto Kai) & the Late Master Iwao Yoneya (Shakuhachi* Bamboo Flute), Headmaster "Iemoto" of YONEYA KAI.
Marisa became an Apprentice "UchiDeshi" for 3-years, learning the language and etiquette so she would have the capability to assist her mother and continue to share Minyo with others. She lived with 4 Upperclassmen- "Senpais" who took the time to teach her the ways of an "UchiDeshi". Being an American, it was a challenge in all aspects, but fortunately, her Masters and Senpais encouraged her to do her best "Gambaru" which gave her the determination to understand all she could during her training.
At age 24, she received her 'Natori'-Certified/Stage Name "MARISA KOSUGI" than returned to the States and has been performing along with Matsutoyo Kai at Cultural Events, Festivals, & etc.
2008 * MINYO STATION was formed by the younger generation members who wanted to share Minyo in a fusion style combining traditional instruments with Guitar, Bass, Drums, Conga, Harmonica & etc. The guitarist, Yu Ooka, is currently the Band Music Arranger for Minyo Station and his ability in creating sounds that enhance the traditional songs are awe-inspiring. His arrangements are unique with different genre styles, such as, Jazzy, Reggae, Rock, Swing & etc. With the creativity of Yu & his fellow band mates, Minyo Station is continuously moving forward with much energy & spirit!
Special 'THANKS' to wonderful ORGANZATIONS: Nisei Week Committee, A3M, JACCC,
MIS * Military Intelligence Services,
Go For Broke,
Fukui Mortuary,
JCCSC,
OCJAA,
Minyo Kyokai,
Pioneer Club,
Keiro Senior HealthCare,
LTBA,
SF Sakura Matsuri,
Kansai Tourism,
Wakayama Kenjin Kai,
Lotus Festival,
Taiwanese Heritage Festival,
Japanese Village Plaza & Weller Court in Little Tokyo,
NishiHongwanji Temple,
Asian American Expo,
Sysco,
Judo Chop,
2nd St. Jazz,
OCBC,
eLittle Tokyo
& more *** to be cont'd...
Thank you for the add. I also am adding another Marisa from before... Marisa Ronstadt. Check her space. You both are so wonderful in your own way. I have many things to learn from your space. It will be fun and educational. Thanks again, Alice from Maryland
Hello MARISA, we are delighted to be in your circle of friends. If you have time, would you mind checking out our
music and let us know, what you think of it. We always appreciate your time and comments. We are looking
forward to hear from you; have a happy weekend full of fun and good music !!! Love and peace, - Guido & Tatch
:)
They don't follow the fashion Latest trend, no reaction State of the world's affairs Seem indifferent, but really care Self-reliance what its all about Don't need it, you do without In the balance of the universe Doesn't matter could be worse ....."Exceptionally Cool".....
In Hawai'i, we place a "Lei", or Flower Garland, around the neck of a Visitor, returning Friend, or Lover. May we offer you some flowers from our gardens, as an imaginary Lei to welcome you...
Good looks, Marisa and you have a excellent week yourself. Inconclusion, beautiful do keep me posted and in touch. Much success and GOD bless. J-ROD @ your service.....
WOW you look sexier with a cool smile....:-)......ROCK ON and much success. J-ROD el COLOMBIANO MC @ your service BEAUTIFULLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
Hey! Thank you for supporting my music. Check out my web site at www.vanessathompson.net and my music videos at www.youtube.com. One of my youtube videos is below for you to hear. If you like it, feel free to put it on your page and share it with your friends. There are also some banners on my page if you want to use them on your page. If you have Facebook, please add me. Some are putting me in their top friends. The support is really appreciated. Hope you liked the cover on Hollywood Celebrity Magazine. If you like my music, please add it to your play list for others to hear. Thank you :)
My new music video to my song "Heartbreakin Game" should be coming out in the near future. There is also a fanpop page for me that has been set up. If you get a chance visit it at http://lnk.ms/0zvbC . You can also sign up to follow me on twitter at www.twitter.com/vanessathompson :)
You're more than welcome for your butterfly Ms.Thang.Every since we had that chat about butterflies,I think of you when I see one:)I hope yourself having a fine Thursday.Much love to you and yours,Shell Belle
I'm going to send you a couple different butterflies today because you're the coolest of cool.
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