Bennett,Elizabeth Reian

Elizabeth Reian Bennett

Professor, Tufts University

Elizabeth Reian Bennett is the first woman to be certified a Grand Master of the shakuhachi, which she has studied with Living National Treasure Aoki Reibo for over 30 years. Since her debut recitalin Tokyo in 1984, Reian Bennett has performed in Japan and worldwide, from Australia and Europe to Mexico, Afghanistan and the United States. Tokyo appearances are planned for every other year; notable venues include Tokyo National Theater and NHK TV. She has been interviewed on National Public Radio by Faith Middleton of Fresh Air, Robert J. Lurtsema of Morning Pro Musica and Richard Knisley of Classical Performances. Her CD entitled Song of the True Hand, was nominated 'Instrumental Album of the Year' by Jon Sobel at Blogcritics Magazine. She teaches privately in the Boston area and through the world music program at Tufts University. Reian Bennett’s next CD is a set of compositions for the shakuhachi written for her by Tufts composer John McDonald.

A Musician on Music and Technology

Abstract

One of the handful of westerners who first studied the shakuhachi (the Japanese end-blown flute) under a traditional master, Elizabeth Reian Bennett will describe her traditional education and where it has led her, followed by a discussion about  technologies used by musicians for distribution, composing, building a fan base, making a living and teaching. She will briefly reflect on intercultural exchange, impacts technology has had on music, and what the future might bring; and open the floor to questions.