Begin Japanology
Season 5 Episode 10 - Japanophiles - Art Lee
This month, we present a special talk-show series called Japanophiles, featuring lively interviews with foreigners living in Japan. The taiko is Japan's own traditional style of drum. These days, it's widely performed on occasions ranging from religious festivals to concerts for paying audiences. And Art Lee, an American, is a master of this percussion instrument. Lee began taiko drumming when he was 17 years old. His talent soon led to recruitment by a prominent Japan-based taiko troupe. Just a year after taking up the instrument, Lee found himself performing in Carnegie Hall. In 2005, Lee was the first foreigner to be awarded the highest prize at the prestigious Tokyo International Taiko Contest. Behind his success, you'll find a rigorous training regimen and his supportive wife, Yukari, who worked hard to become a member of Lee's own taiko troupe. This time, we meet Art Lee, listen to his unique sound, and experience his passion for percussion.
Episodes in Season 5
Ekiden
28 min
Batteries
28 min
Cafes
28 min
Hot Water Bottles and Pocket Warmers
28 min
Ikebana
28 min
Excavators
28 min
Woods & Forests
28 min
Japanophiles - Dhugal Lindsay
28 min
Japanophiles - Richard Emmert
28 min
Japanophiles - Art Lee
28 min
Japanophiles - Philip Harper
28 min
Kabuki
28 min
Wild Vegetables
28 min
Horses
28 min
Massage Chairs
28 min
Shikoku Pilgrimage
28 min
Regional Fast Food
28 min
Department Stores
28 min
Kimonos
28 min
Aquariums
28 min
Confectionery
28 min
Dolls
28 min
Moss
28 min
High School Baseball
28 min
Planetariums
28 min
Japanophiles - Adam Booth
28 min
Japanophiles - Dave Spector
28 min
Japanophiles - Euan Craig
28 min
Shamisen
28 min
Crested Ibises
28 min
Abalone
28 min
Tokyo Station
28 min
Tokyo Skytree
28 min
Tokyo Bay
28 min
Potatoes, Taros, and Yams
28 min
Name Seals
28 min
Mushrooms
28 min
Vending Machines
28 min
Scissors
28 min
Satsuma Mandarins
28 min
Gift-giving
28 min