Matsutoyo Sato *Matsutoyo Kai *Minyo Station
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 the supporting music artists who took the time to join Minyo Station & Matsutoyo Kai with an amazing groove: Shin Kato (bassist-HBT ) ,Ilan Terrell (drums) ,Nori Iji (bassist-MPA) ,Tetsuya Nakamura (conga/harmonica-Weeping Willow) ,Miles Senzaki (drums-Leviathan Bros) ,Yutaka Ando (bassist)
Special thanks to FRIENDS: Hyde One-GF, Yoko Ito * Mellins Production,Billy Mitchell Group :) ,Cuicani's Vibe ,L'alcool ,Paul Furutani,Kiyoshi in the Willows ,Fresh Louie ,BradWay ,Akira Yasunari (Photographer), Mr. & Mrs. Kota Oiwa (Photographer & Film) ,Yoshie Sato,Kaoru Enjoji ,Sunday Mitsuru ,Ippei Suzuki ,Judo Chop ,Kill Kill Club ,Thee Out Mods ,7 Samurai Records ,
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...
'Dreams of Happiness' *
X-Cultures/Brian Wayy * Putumayo World Music
