--How much do you charge for lessons?

$50 per lesson.
 

--Where can I buy a koto and how much does one cost?

My first student koto, with the accessories, cost about $700 USD. Recently, I've seen some "koto starter sets" floating around online for about $1,000. Professionals will tell you that you need to spend a lot more for a "concert-ready" instrument. Of course you can get started for less. Before you go out and buy a koto, send me an email or message on the Contact form - I can reach out to some instrument vendors and musician friends to see about finding a good-quality new or used koto to fit your budget.

I do offer koto rentals in the States. However, at the moment, I've lent all of my koto out! Send me an email if you'd like to be put on a waiting list.
 

--Why "Gakushi" music?

When a student receives their teaching license, they also choose a professional "artist" name. My teacher helped me choose 雅紅紫 'Gakushi.' He said it fits his image of me.
雅 is the usual kanji that Seiha artist names start with, and refers to refined elegance.
紅 means deep red (and 紅 'beni' also has the meaning of a particular scent).
紫 means purple, a noble color.
 

--What do I do if I break a string?

Changing or repairing a koto string is more difficult than fixing, say, a guitar string. There are tutorials online, but I'd recommended having it done by a professional.
Send me an email and I'll see if I can put you in touch with someone in your area or help you find a solution.
 

--Is it okay if I don't read music?

That's okay because a koto score looks completely different than standard music notation on staff paper. It's actually much easier to read than it appears.