Oshogatsu 2017

Every year, Matsutoyo Kai performs at the Japanese “Oshogatsu Festival” at Weller Court, in Downtown Los Angeles. For those who are unfamiliar with the area, it is a large courtyard surrounded by Japanese shops, located in the heart of Little Tokyo. Originally, I had agreed to go on a road trip with friends to Las Vegas, but was reminded of my Taiko duties with Matsutoyo Kai, thus keeping me in Los Angeles for the holiday— a decision I don’t regret in the slightest.

I spent New Year’s Eve with two good friends who happen to be professional musicians. We discussed our past, present, and future plans for the coming year. They glowed with positivity, having prospered in a multitude of ways and while the same could not be said about my own progress this past year, I was at least able to share in the excitement of their achievements. Only positivity, determination, and a focused execution will yield exceptional results. 

While I experienced much enjoyment from performing at the festival, it was far more rewarding being able to provide an experience for the audience. Lugging my equipment out in public to perform for a crowd of people that I have never and possibly will never meet was a very enjoyable and giving type of experience. I hope that I managed to brighten someone’s day and inspire positivity in the start of this new year, 2017.

Click, to view more of my images from the Oshogatsu Festival.