My name is Robert Adams. l'm a licensed teacher of the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. I've played koto professionally for festivals, weddings, and corporate events for over a decade and have collaborated with various bands and artists. In 2019, I moved to Yokohama, Japan, to go for my "jun shihan" teaching license. I studied under Utanoichi Okuda of Seiha hōgaku-kai, an Ikuta school of traditional music. In February of 2023, I sat for the exam and received my teaching license.

I offer one-to-one online lessons for both beginners and intermediate to advanced students. I specialize in customizing the lessons to your particular goals, whether you want to focus on traditional repertoire, modern pieces, koto arrangements of contemporary songs, or a bit of each.

You don't need any prior musical experience to begin playing the koto. For more advanced students, I can help with phrasing, technique, and musicality, as well as applying music theory to traditional koto music. Below are some testimonials from current and former students:

“I'm 57, and I play the koto. Some people my age believe that you have to be young to learn an instrument. I learned under the direction of Robert that age is STILL just a number. He is patient and understanding because this is the first instrument I have ever been taught how to play."
-Addie N

“I was a complete beginner to Koto when I started taking lessons from Robert.  He took the time to make sure my hand positions and technique were correct before moving into full repertoire.  Because Robert gave me such a solid foundation with Koto, I was able to participate in multiple Japanese music workshops, one of which was in Japan.  I would absolutely recommend taking Koto lessons with Robert!”
-Sarah C

Don't hesitate to use the Contact form to get in touch, or email me at radamskoto AT gmail.com