I performed at a house concert while i was there at a 250 year old house that used to be a a Japanese hotel in the time of the samurai.FOur of us got to got to play a short set along with four Japanese Artists (2 traditional 2 pop and classical) It was very moving to know that we had the universal language of music in common . We all played together for a final number.

Canada day at Expo. The seats are just filling up now. It was nearly a full house. Performers from all over Canada played at this event . Even Alanis Morrisette came out and played two songs. Here we are waving the Japanese flag to show our gratitude for having us. This is a shot of our host families and our delegation . Just so everyone is aware , There were only 4 artists from Kelowna on this trip I was very proud to represent Kelowna and Canada.

This is Kasco (i hope i even came close to spelling her name right). She is an amazing Koto player. SHe was at the house concert as well. Kascos smile was so kind and welcoming. She was always quick with the offer to drink Sake and every time we met we would pretend to be pounding a few back . there was always a gesture , a point of the finger and always ,always a smile and nod of the head saying "SAKE?" What a riot!

Here's a picture of the concert just starting to fill up up. I counted nearly 70 people. It was pretty jammed packed in there. A nice size considering the room we were in. I'd love to see this kind of Concert happen more in Canada.

Here i am playing at the Kelowna / Kasugai city banquet. Great party. Lots of really great People and memories . When I strummed the very last chord for my set, a Japanese man came running up , Filled me a tall glass of beer with a big smile. I announced "Japanese Beer is good!" over the Mic.Some were shocked , some laughed...Then I raised my glass high and toasted the party with a big Kompai!. The audience responded with a massive cheer. "Kompai!!!" back to me. Damn, I must admit. Kirin beer is really good stuff. I may have a new favorite. I just realized , I'm starting to sound like an alcoholic. In reality i rarely drink. But here, it was one party to the next and it just felt good to go along with things. Spirits were always high and never once was there a low where it felt wrong or depressing to be doing anything. I can't remember a time in my life where partying nearly every night felt this good.

Ah yes . Mighty Soxer with Beautiful Smiling Face!... ??????. I think they sold Socks. The translation doesn't quite work. But hey If we tried to translate what we say into Japanese it probably would sound weird to them too...still makes for an amusing shot though.

I know kinda small shot. This is most of our delegation at Kelowna day . Great bunch of people. I made new friends , Drank too much sake (all in good spirit and good times )And Smiled more than i have in years. These people were Just fantastic and positive the whole trip. It was a pleasure.

Here's a shot of all of us after the show. Bagpipes, Celtic fiddle, Opera, Jazz, Pop , Shakuhatchi (japanese flute), Koto (Japanese Harp),Country, and Adult Contemporary were all played at the same show. All the performers were a joy to work with and to listen too. Just a great highlight to our trip

Everyone is starting to arrive at the banquet here. Lots of red and white. Canada's and Japans flag colors

Tokyo as seen from the top of a Radio tower. This city never seemed to end . It was so big

A Koi (sp?) pond. These fish were at least 3 feet long.They would come right up wanting food from your hand too.