To help preserve our Japanese cultural heritage, and provide education and enjoyment, the JASC offers the following classes. To check to see which classes are upcoming, link to the web site calendar page. For additional information, e-mail or call 773.275.0097.   Registration To register for an upcoming class, click here. A new browser window will open with a PDF registration form. Print out the form, fill it in, and mail it with your check to JASC, 4427 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640.   Enka/Minyo (Japanese Dance Workshops) Fujima Shunojo, instructor For 30 years, Fujima Sensei has taught and performed Japanese classical dance through his school, the Fujima Ryu of Chicago. Now, as an artist in residence of the JASC, he offers instruction in shinbuyo ("new dance" performed to Japanese enka music) and minyo (folk dance). Workshops will first focus on minyo, with its simple, repeated dance patterns, and will progress to the more complex shinbuyo style, which reflects the narrative quality of enka songs. Two-week session. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Ikebana (Flower Arranging) Kazuko Ernst, instructor Learn how to create your own stunning Japanese flower arrangements. Four 1 hour classes per session, held twice a month. There are six sessions a year. For current dates please refer to the class schedule.   Japanese Language (Beginning) Learn conversational Japanese, a little reading, and a little writing in a friendly, sociable atmosphere. Eight 1.5 hour classes, which meet for 8 consecutive weeks. Students are expected to attend all classes. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Japanese Language (Intermediate) For more advanced students. Eight 1.5 hour classes, which meet for 8 consecutive weeks. Students are expected to attend all classes. Prospective students are welcome to visit a class to see if one would fit their needs Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Origami Workshops (Paper Folding) Naomi Negi, instructor Learn this ancient art of folding paper into animals, flowers, boxes, beautiful Christmas ornaments, and other wonderful objects! No summer classes available. For current dates please refer to the class schedule.   Shamisen (Japanese Lute) Tatsu Aoki, instructor This beginning class presents the basic technique of playing the shamisen, a traditional, Japanese, stringed instrument. Classes will center on the zashiki style of performance, a rather informal and intimate style associated with geisha musicians, instead of the more strict style heard in kabuki or bunraku theater. Students will learn to play simple folk or children's songs. Instruments will be available for rental, and interested students can arrange for private lessons. Eight-week session. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Sumi-e (Beginning/Continuing) Kay Thomas, instructor Class size from 4 to 15 students Explore Sumi-e, the ancient art of Japanese ink painting. Individualized instruction is provided. Beginners will learn to use Japanese painting equipment and the techniques used to paint classic nature subjects such as bamboo, chrysanthemums and plums. Ink stick and ink stone or bottle of ink, medium Japanese brush, and 9x12" pad of rice paper required. Available at J. Toguri Mercantile, 851 W. Belmont, Chicago. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Sumi-e (Continuing) Kay Thomas, instructor Class size from 4 to 15 students Explore Sumi-e, the ancient art of Japanese ink painting. Individualized instruction is provided. Class geared towards continuing students. Ink stick and ink stone or bottle of ink, medium Japanese brush, and 9x12" pad of rice paper required. Available at J. Toguri Mercantile, 851 W. Belmont, Chicago. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Suminagashi Kay Thomas, instructor Class size from 4 to 15 students Sumi-nagashi means floating ink. This traditional art form originated in eighteenth century Japan. Marble-like patterns are created by floating ink on water. The designs are transferred to absorbent paper. No two are ever alike. Finished pieces may be framed or used in paper craft projects. Individualized instruction is provided. Class geared towards beginning students. Ink stick and ink stone or bottle of ink and 9x12" pad of Hosho paper required. Available at J. Toguri Mercantile, 851 W. Belmont, Chicago; or Aiko's Art Materials, 3347 N. Clark, Chicago. For current dates please call (773) 275-0097 ext. 226.   Tai Chi (Beginning) Lynn Baumhardt, instructor Tuesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. $80 JASC member, $95 non-member Wear comfortable clothing and be ready to work in stockinged feet Take a daily vacation from the stresses of life with the peaceful exercise, often called meditation in motion. Tai Chi offers benefits for health, flexibility and peace of mind. The movements can be learned by people of all ages and physical conditions. Tai Chi teaches us to appreciate our bodies and minds and to expand their abilities. Eight week course. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Tai Chi (Advanced) Lynn Baumhardt, instructor Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $80 JASC member, $95 non-member Wear comfortable clothing and be ready to work in stockinged feet Advanced Tai Chi movements. Eight week course. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Taiko – Introductory Amy Homma, instructor Family discount pricing available, for further information please call 773-275-0097. Wear loose comfortable clothes and shoes. Bring water bottles. Taiko in Japanese literally means "big drum." Traditionally used in Japanese culture in gagaku (court music) and at the summer Obon festival, taiko has become increasingly popular in America as a performing art form. Learn the fundamentals on how to play this unique Japanese drum. Ten week course. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   Taiko Workshops 2X4 Tuesdays Amy Homma, instructor Tuesdays, 2nd and 4th of the month; 6:30-8:00p.m. Wear loose comfortable clothes and shoes. Bring water bottles. Taiko in Japanese literally means "big drum." Traditionally used in Japanese culture in gagaku (court music) and at the summer Obon festival, taiko has become increasingly popular in America as a performing art form. Learn the fundamentals on how to play this unique Japanese drum. Click class schedule for current dates, and class fee for costs.   (back to top)