Within the framework of the Bilbao International Print Fair, FIG Bilbao, which is being held from 23 to 26 November at the Palacio Euskalduna, the Embassy of Japan is organising an opening recital of tsugaru shamisen (Japanese three-stringed guitar) by the artist José Luque, on Thursday 23 November at 6 p.m. in the auditorium of the Palacio Euskalduna in Bilbao.
José Luque is a tsugaru shamisen player and luthier. He started playing the instrument as a self-taught player, won several prizes in shamisen competitions in Japan and had the honour of learning from master Kenichi Yoshida (Yoshida Brothers) and even performing with him.
FIG 2023, organised by the Cultural Association for the Promotion of Arthazi Art with the collaboration of the Provincial Council of Bizkaia, the City Council of Bilbao, the Ministry of Culture and Sport and the Fundación Japón, among other entities, is part of the Euskadi-Japan Year, which is being held this year.
During the Fair there will be masterclasses and exhibitions by Japanese artists and experts in the tradition of Japanese engraving and paper. You can consult the programme at this link.