Riley Lee began shakuhachi in Japan in 1970, and began wataiko in 1973 with the group now called Kodo.
In 1980, he became the first non-Japanese shakuhachi dai shihan (Grand Master). His shakuhachi teacher since 1986 is the internationally renowned player, Yokoyama Katsuya.
Riley has a PhD (musicology, Sydney University). He performs and teaches extensively worldwide. He has made more than 50 recordings. Riley co-founded TaikOz in 1997 with Ian Cleworth.
In April 2005, he premiered Ross Edward’s shakuhachi concerto, “The Heart of Night” with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

A Shakuhachi Player’s Approach to Preparation and Performance

Session Abstract

There are many ways one can prepare for a musical performance. Likewise there are a variety of methods of achieving optimal performance. This session deals with the approach to practice and performance in non-western music traditions, in this case that of the shakuhachi, Japan’s bamboo flute. As might be expected, there are both similarities and differences in these approaches. An understanding of these differences, which may arise from various cultural and philosophical distinctions, can enhance anyone’s performance. Daily practice well before the performance, the mental and emotional preparation immediately beforehand, and one’s thought processes during the performance are among the issues that will be discussed.