Kana Omori
Kana Omori is an international marimbist, percussionist as well as a composer from Japan.
She has been awarded several prizes, including the First Prize and Absolute Prize at the International Percussion Competition in Italy.
Kana is a tourist ambassador in Ishinomaki (Miyagi, Japan), a radio presenter, and an associate professor at the Osaka College of Music.
She has released seven albums of marimba music, and many of her arrangements and compositions are published by Edition Svitzer.
As a soloist, Kana has performed with many orchestras in various countries as well as has given recitals and masterclasses in over 10 countries across Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia. She is also a faculty member and a composer-in-residence of the Marimbafest, International Marimba festival and Competition, in Australia.
Kana is an official endorser of Pearl/Adams, Encore Mallets/Salyers Percussion, Sabian Cymbals, Fall Creek Marimbas, and Aluphone.
She has her own signature mallet line the “Kana Omori Signature Mallets Series” with Encore Mallets, Inc.
Fall Creek Marimbas has made a special glockenspiel named after her, the "KANA-Glock", and Adams Percussion created a special pink marimba for her.
Resonating Roots: Traditional Japan Reimagined for Marimba
Session Description:
This performance features three original new marimba works. They bridge Japan’s profound cultural heritage with modern innovation. Inspired by my hometown-Nara-Japan’s first capital with a 2700-year history and home to the world’s oldest orchestra—these works embody the spirit of ancient Japan, its rich culture, and the beauty of its natural landscapes.
The clinic will delve into the cultural and musical elements behind these works, offering insight into traditional Japanese music from three distinct perspectives. I will perform sections from longer pieces and full-length performances for the others. Each piece will be accompanied by a clinic presentation portion explaining various Japanese ideologies and elements found in these pieces.
1. SAKURA Dance
This piece is based on the traditional Japanese folk song "Sakura Sakura" it depicts the beauty of cherry blossoms and it petals fluttering and falling every spring. The piece blends various traditional Japanese rhythms with rhythms from other cultures.
Clinic Focus:
• The significance of traditional Japanese rhythms and their variations.
• The role and meaning of traditional instruments in Japanese music.
2. UGUISU KAGURA
Blending the ancient Gagaku scale with Gregorian modes, this piece connects Japan’s oldest orchestral tradition with medieval European sacred music.
Clinic Focus:
・ An introduction to Gagaku, its historical context, and unique scales.
・ The Japanese concept of "Ma" (space between sounds) and its artistic and cross-cultural applications.
3. Thunderbird
Inspired by the Ainu music, this piece reflects their deep connection to nature and spirituality through modern marimba techniques.
Clinic Focus:
・ The role of Ainu music in expressing emotions, nature, and daily life.
・ Contexts of Ainu music in rituals, storytelling, and its spiritual significance.
I will give an opportunity for the audience to ask questions, particularly how to apply the concept of “Ma” in other repertoire.
1. SAKURA Dance
This piece is based on the traditional Japanese folk song "Sakura Sakura" it depicts the beauty of cherry blossoms and it petals fluttering and falling every spring. The piece blends various traditional Japanese rhythms with rhythms from other cultures.
Clinic Focus:
• The significance of traditional Japanese rhythms and their variations.
• The role and meaning of traditional instruments in Japanese music.
2. UGUISU KAGURA
Blending the ancient Gagaku scale with Gregorian modes, this piece connects Japan’s oldest orchestral tradition with medieval European sacred music.
Clinic Focus:
・ An introduction to Gagaku, its historical context, and unique scales.
・ The Japanese concept of "Ma" (space between sounds) and its artistic and cross-cultural applications.
3. Thunderbird
Inspired by the Ainu music, this piece reflects their deep connection to nature and spirituality through modern marimba techniques.
Clinic Focus:
・ The role of Ainu music in expressing emotions, nature, and daily life.
・ Contexts of Ainu music in rituals, storytelling, and its spiritual significance.
I will give an opportunity for the audience to ask questions, particularly how to apply the concept of “Ma” in other repertoire.
- Keyboard
Date:
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time:
9:00 AM
Location:
Room 125
Session Type:
Clinic / Performance
Session Format:
Live
