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Family Jam

By on April 4, 2008

Photo © Elena Derevstova

Tokyo has long been a melting pot of culture, with the Japanese holding tight to their roots while embracing foreign ways of life. Music is an outstanding example of this phenomenon, as every genre made has a fanbase among Tokyoites. The diversity makes this city an ideal place for any artist to be in.

I Can Hear Music No musician is complete without an instrument. Ochanomizu is famed for its wide array of music shops on Meida Dori Avenue, and is certainly the place to be for those in search of top quality gear. A simple stroll through the area will surely help one find what they are looking for, as most of the stores have various instruments and accessories in stock altogether.

Shimokura Musical Instrument Co., located in between the JR Ochanomizu Line and Nippon University, is a favorite among music makers. Not only do they stock an impressive collection of new and used instruments, from strings to wind, but they offer a dedicated repair and maintenance service. Located on the same street is Ishibashi Gakki, yet another big music emporium, complete with drums and percussion instruments. (They also have an online shop if you prefer; visit them at www.ishibashi-music.com). An advantage of shopping in Ochanomizu is that Akihabara is right next-door, and therefore convenient for those in need of electronics and software to create their music.

Skools In For Summer Once equipped, musicians may look into polishing their skills—or learning to play if they don’t already. Schools are always a great place to meet and greet others with similar interests. The Shimamura Music School, for instance, offers a plethora of courses from string, wind, and percussion instrument training to vocal lessons, to willing students of all ages and levels. Some are taught in English, although others may require a grasp of the Japanese language. Their numerous branches are spread throughout Tokyo, so the commute should be hassle-free. Alternatively, there are many individuals willing to give private lessons, and some can be found listed on a bulletin board at one of Tokyo’s international supermarkets.

Studio 854 The fun starts with practicing. After all, it does make perfect! If cranking up the amp. or banging those drums in the comfort of your bedroom doesn’t make the neighbors too happy, feel grateful you’re in Tokyo. There are studios scattered all over town, available to rent out throughout the day and night. Japanese studios are often equipped with all the basic necessities: amplifiers, microphones, and speakers. Some have the larger instruments such as keyboards and drum kits for full bands, and recording gadgets. These places usually charge by the hour and prices vary depending on the studio. A directory of studios for rent can be found at www.studioasp.com (Japanese only). Hitchcock Recordings in Gotanda gives the best recording rates around.

Without an Orchestra What better place for singers to be in than the birthplace of karaoke? Although primarily a hobby, karaoke is one way of polishing those pipes. Foreigners may find the selection for English songs rather limited at popular chains, however. Fortunately, there are karaoke clubs that resolve that dilemma. Smash Hits in Hiro-o boasts a collection of over 10,000 English songs from beloved classics to the most recent jams, in addition to numerous hits in several other languages. Private parties are allowed, and children’s nights are also held.

Jammin’ Even though you may not yet be as famous as Justin Timberlake or Beyonce, there are places in Tokyo for amateur performers to show off their musical chops. Several bars and cafes have open-mic events, which are a great way to showcase you or your band’s music. The Rock Factory in Roppongi holds its own every Monday at 8pm; it is also possible to book a full performance set. In Shibuya, a variety of performances can be seen in CoZmo’s Cafe for its open-mic night every Thursday from 8:30pm, in the midst of its intimate setting. Please be aware that alcohol is served at these venues. Of course, there is always the option of playing at Yoyogi Park on a weekend afternoon––if you dare!

Shimamura Music School
www.shimamura.co.jp/english/

Smash Hits
www.smashhits.jp

CoZmos Cafe
www.cozmoscafe.com

Rock Factory
www.rock-factory.jp

Kawase Luthiers
03-3291-2723

Hitchcock Recording Studio, Gotanda
090-9201-0799

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