Gasshuku 2012

Southeastern Minnesota Suzuki Organization (SEMSA) will host another Gasshuku workshop in November of 2012!

The next Gasshuku is already being planned. We have reserved the dates of November 9 and 10, 2012 at the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, in Lanesboro, MN. Save these dates on your calendar, and plan to join us!

What is Gasshuku?

"Gasshuku" is a Japanese term meaning special training, often held outdoors. The name was chosen by SEMSA for our biennial workshop in honor of our Japanese Suzuki heritage, and because it nicely summarizes our event, a special weekend of training for Suzuki students. Each Gasshuku has a theme. Nationally-known clinicians are brought in to teach. Students attend Gasshuku to study the standard repertoire for violin, viola, cello, flute, harp and piano. Holding the 2012 Gasshuku at Eagle Bluff allows us to incorporate a variety of outdoor activities, in a beautiful, natural setting.

Gasshuku 2009

Gasshuku 2009 held a composition theme. Students had the opportunity to write their own music and receive professional feedback. The highlight of the 2009 Gasshuku was the premier of Catherine McMichael's composition Northern Lights, for members of the community, and its students, parents and teachers. The piece holds special significance to our community because each of the three movements is based on a different work of art in the Rochester area. Many members of the community donated to support the commissioning of the work. It is a community wide expression of our devotion to all forms of art and the children who study music.