Yumi, a music instructor and performer, possesses a rich background in traditional Japanese music. Throughout her musical career, she has garnered praise for her contributions to cultural exchange and education. Notably, she founded Takohachi, a nonprofit organization in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to showcasing Japanese culture through music. Yumi’s commitment to music shines through as she performs at more than 50 events annually.
In October 2018, Yumi was honored with a special award in the Internet Shinobue Contest. Following this, she showcased her exceptional shinobue skills at a live concert in Tokyo in December of the same year.
In January 2019, Yumi achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the ‘Natori’ (accredited master) certificate from Tsugaru Shamisen Oyama-Kai, demonstrating her mastery of the tsugaru shamisen. Her successes continued in October 2019 when she and Takohachi claimed first place in the Internet Shinobue Contest, leading to a live concert in Tokyo in November 2019 featuring shinobue and tsugaru shamisen.
Apart from her musical performances, Yumi’s volunteer efforts for the Memorial Healing Garden Project at the Oregon State Penitentiary were acknowledged by the Oregon Department of Corrections and the Asian Pacific Family Club in November 2019. In July 2020, one of her educational and cultural videos was featured in a virtual art class showcase by the Clackamas County Arts Alliance, underlining her dedication to cultural education.
Yumi’s excellence in tsugaru shamisen was further recognized in December 2022 when she clinched first place in two divisions of the online tsugaru shamisen contest, Bachido Cup 2021. Subsequently, she launched the Kotori Kai Shamisen School through Takohachi in January 2023, with the group already showcasing their talent at venues like the Portland Japanese Garden.
In September 2023, the Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative honored Yumi with the “2023 Keeper of the Culture Award” for her ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Yumi’s musical journey reflects her passion for music and unwavering dedication to cultural exchange and education, inspiring and enriching the communities she serves.