2022 2022 2022 Artists

The Korean Traditional Music Association of America [KTMAA]

The Korean Traditional Music Association of America was established in 2012, uniting cultural artists from the Eastern U.S. states of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Since the election of the first chairwoman, Kap-Son Yi (Um), the association has been vigorously engaging in cultural activities. They are known for hosting their “Myong In Youl Jeon” concert consisting of human cultural assets from Korea, opening annual concerts for adopted children as well as organizing artistic enhancement workshops for the artists.

The Ba Ban Chinese Music Society of New York

Founded in 1999, the Ba Ban Chinese Music Society of New York is dedicated to the preservation, creation, and presentation of Chinese traditional and contemporary performing arts. “Ba Ban” literally translates to “Eight Beats”, which is eight trigrams that are the structural basis for the grouping of notes in traditional Chinese music. The ensemble performs with a range of instruments, including di/xiao (flutes), sheng (mouth organ), pipa (lute), qin (zither), ruan (alto lute), huqin (fiddles), yangqin (dulcimer), and percussion.

Some performance highlights by the group include The Landmark Event - New York State’s first official celebration of the “Lunar New Year 4698”, “Asia Night” - the first appearance by a traditional Chinese music group at Citi Field, and Carnegie Hall’s “Musical Explorer.” In 2015, the group was recognized by the NYC Council for exemplary cultural service to the community.

The Dance Department of FTC-Middletown

The Dance Department of FTC – Middletown consists of performers from Fei Tian College – Middletown and offers unique dance programs steeped in traditions of the East and West. Additionally, FTC – Middletown is one of the most selected colleges in the U.S. that offers concentrations in classical ballet alongside classical Chinese dance. They cultivate individual artistry while instilling students with the knowledge and skills to become professional performers, educators, and creators.

This evening, a group of young dancers will present a very festive dance piece, based on one of the Chinese folk dance styles - Yang Ge.

Xin Wu Men Martial Arts School of New York

Chinese martial arts have been a part of Chinese civilization for thousands of years, with rich history and profoundness. Since ancient times, all martial arts schools and martial artists have valued 'Wude', or martial arts virtue. Those who practice cultivate the mind and skill, benefiting individuals and society alike through promoting kindness and stopping evil.

New York Xin Wu Men Martial Arts School has persistently promoted traditional Chinese martial arts culture. Today, they bring you a martial arts journey, showcasing both Northern and Southern styles of Kung Fu, Taichi, and Chinese calligraphy. The performers range from international competition winners to new students. They come from diverse ethnic backgrounds, all having the passion and sense of mission to preserve the traditional Chinese martial arts culture.

Miyabi Koto Shamisen Ensemble

Miyabi Koto Shamisen Ensemble is a New York-based group founded and headed by Ms. Masayo Ishigure. Ms. Ishigure began playing the koto and shamisen at the age of five, later developing her skills with Tadao and Kazue Sawai as a special research student.

Since its foundation in 1996, Miyabi’s repertoire has ranged from classical to contemporary koto and shamisen music. The ensemble especially dedicates themselves to playing Tadao Sawai’s compositions.

The ensemble consists of members of the Sawai Koto Academy, which is one of the most prominent schools for contemporary koto and shamisen music. The aim of the academy is to incorporate many influences from classical to jazz and thus change the perception of the koto solely as a traditional Japanese instrument into an instrument of universal expressiveness.

They have played many concerts in the New York Metropolitan area, the Eastern United States, Hawaii, and South America. In addition, they have been introducing Japanese culture through workshops and school performances.