The Ryukyu Sokyoku Koyo Kai Hawaii Shibu (“Koyo Kai Hawaii”) is the organization that unites the schools of Ryukyu Sokyoku (traditional Okinawan kutu) in Hawaii. Its mission is to share and perpetuate the music and culture of Okinawa in Hawaii. Koyo Kai Hawaii will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2026.
Koto Workshop – Saturday, 9/12
Ryukyu Sokyoku Koyo Kai Hawaii is honored to welcome Hideaki Miyazato Sensei from Okinawa for a free public workshop featuring instruction in dan no mono (instrumental repertoire) and kouta. Whether you’re a performer, student, or simply interested in Ryukyuan music, we hope you’ll join us for this unique opportunity to learn from a koto master.
Today, Koyo Kai Hawaii is comprised of 7 schools of Ryukyu Sokyoku in Hawaii. The Kaishu of the schools are certified by Honbu to teach koto. However, the Kaishu are second and third generation instructors, passing down the teachings of their predecessors from Okinawa who have since passed away. Over the past 50 years, the koto techniques and style of playing in Okinawa have evolved.
By bringing koto instructor Hideaki Miyazato Sensei from Okinawa, the Kaishu and members of Koyo Kai Hawaii will have an opportunity to learn and continue perpetuating traditional Okinawan koto music in Hawaii. By making the workshop open to the public, we hope to promote traditional Okinawan koto music and bring more awareness of Okinawan culture. It will also give the Kaishu an opportunity to strengthen relationships with Okinawa, helping to foster communications and future projects.
Yo-In Echoing Through Time to Enter the Hearts of the Future – Sunday, 9/13 (SOLD OUT)
50th Anniversary Celebration Event
Yo-in refers to the lingering resonance that remains after a sound fades—like the gentle echo of koto strings—carrying forward through time and into the hearts of the future.
The program includes performances featuring koto players from Hawaii, Okinawa and Los Angeles, as well as Ryukyu Buyo and Eisa. The program will be followed by lunch and fellowship.
