Biography
Oregon Koto-Kai was founded by Mitsuki Dazai, who moved to Oregon in 2002. In 2007, accompanied by one of her students, she performed at the Asian Celebration in Eugene. This experience gave her the idea of forming a koto ensemble group. Mitsuki began to focus on ensemble lessons and named the group “Oregon Koto-Kai (Japanese Koto Society of Oregon)”. The group enjoyed its first performance with six members in February 2012, In November of 2012, Oregon Koto-Kai held its first concert at Epworth United Methodist Church in Portland. Her dream is that Oregon Koto-Kai will provide the opportunity to introduce the uniquely beautiful music of koto in both traditional/contemporary styles.
Oregon Koto-Kai is a registered 501(c)3 organization since 2015.
Our Mission
- Introduce Japanese koto music to the broader community by creating opportunities for people to enjoy koto music or to learn to play the koto
- Contribute to the cultural diversity in the Northwest
- Collaborate with other musicians/composers in our community
- Improve koto players’ skills and techniques