Michael Gould Visits WMU

Michael “Chikuzen” Gould visits WMU as a part of Visiting Scholars and Artists Program

Michael “Chikuzen” Gould, who is one of the foremost American performers of the shakuhachi (the traditional Japanese bamboo flute), will be coming to Kalamazoo as part of the Visiting Scholars and Artists Program October 18-20.

Mr. Gould was raised in the United States, became interested in the traditional Japanese musical instrument, and was trained in Japan as a master of this instrument. He now resides in Ann Arbor as a professional shakuhachi player. During his stay at WMU, he will visit classes in the Departments of History, Foreign Languages, and Comparative Religion, as well as in the School of Music. He will also give a concert open to the entire University community.

This will be a rare opportunity for students to meet with an American who fell in love with Japanese culture and history and who has received one of the highest honors possible in a traditional Japanese art. To many students, Japanese history and culture seem very foreign, but Mr. Gould’s visit will hopefully challenge this kind of perception and show students that it is indeed possible to develop a high level of expertise and knowledge regarding Japan, its history, and culture. This event is co-sponsored by History with Foreign Languages and other departments and programs. For additional information, contact Prof. Takashi Yoshida in the Department of History or Prof. Jeffrey Angels in the department of Foreign Languages.