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SAKURA: SPRING SONG

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SINGING
Cycles
Workshops

SAKURA: SPRING SONG

May 2026

Monday, May 4 and 11, Tuesday, May 19, and Monday, May 25 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM

Facilitator: Aki Takahashi

This singing workshop series is part of Jamii’s May Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right. SAKURA: Spring Song draws inspiration from Japanese cherry blossom celebrations, where voice and music are shared collectively to welcome the season of renewal.


Participants are introduced to traditional Japanese folk songs connected to Sakura festivities and explore the voice as both melodic and rhythmic expression. Through singing, chanting, and simple vocal patterns, the group shapes a contemporary version of a Sakura Viewing Festival. The workshops emphasize listening, participation, and collective sound rather than performance, allowing participants to engage in a way that feels natural and supportive.


These workshops are open to participants of all experience levels. No prior knowledge of Japanese music or singing is required. Participants are encouraged to take part with curiosity and openness.


Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited.


Support free community arts

Jamii’s workshops are offered free so that cost is never a barrier to participation. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by donating through Jamii’s website. Your support helps keep community arts accessible and welcoming for everyone.


Jamii’s May Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming.

Photos by Hadeal Karrar

AKI TAKAHASHI


Aki Takahashi is a taiko and shamisen player, folk singer, and composer with a deep practice rooted in traditional and contemporary Japanese music. She is a member and co-artistic director of NAGATA SHACHU and the founder of the ensemble TEN TEN. Aki’s work spans performance, collaboration, and teaching, and she currently instructs shamisen and voice through the Bachido Schoolhouse: International Shamisen Community. Her facilitation centres care, musical tradition, and shared experience. 

Photo by Jae Yang

UPCOMING DATES

Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend.

  • February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    Feb 02, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
    The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada
    Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration.
  • February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    Feb 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
    The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada
    Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration.
  • February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    Feb 17, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
    The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada
    Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration.
  • February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series
    Feb 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
    The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada
    Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration.

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LOCATION

The Jamii Hub - 264 The Esplanade M5A 4J6 Toronto ON

CONTACT US

info@jamii.ca

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We acknowledge the land we are meeting on is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We also acknowledge that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.

© 2024 Jamii Esplanade – Charitable Registration Number: 803873207 RR 0001

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