EVA Vetted Talent
Shawn Tairyu Head
Compare to: Yokoyama Katsuya, Watazumi Doso Roshi, Taniguchi Yoshinobu
Nashville, TN, USA
Traditional Japanese Music (Zen, Edo Era, Samurai)
With an active performing and recording schedule, and a growing studio of students, Shawn Tairyu Head has dedicated himself to bringing the shakuhachi to new audiences around the world. While he embraces the traditional melodies of the ancient repertoire known as honkyoku, his classical conservatory training and Western spiritual perspective make him equally at home composing and commissioning new works that explore the unique sonic possibilities of the shakuhachi. As a performer, composer, and teacher, his goal is nothing less than a shakuhachi revival.
“By nurturing a deep appreciation for shakuhachi and other traditional Japanese arts, I hope to contribute to an artistic renaissance in Japan. My goal is to inspire the younger generation to embrace these ancient traditions, fostering a new wave of Shihans (“masters”) who will carry forward the legacy of honkyoku melodies.”
Videos
Styles
Easy Listening
Classical
Instrumentalist
Band Setups
Solo
Event Types
In-Person
Virtual
Occasions
Corporate Event
Festival
Private Party
Public Event
Wedding
Song Types
No Covers
Offerings
SHAKUHACHI MEDITATION EXPERIENCE
A deeply calming live performance rooted in Zen tradition, designed to create a reflective and peaceful atmosphere for audiences of any size.
Event Types: In-Person
JAPANESE BAMBOO FLUTE CONCERT
An immersive solo concert showcasing the expressive power of the shakuhachi, blending traditional repertoire with contemporary works.
Event Types: In-Person
CORPORATE WELLNESS SOUND SESSION
A unique offering for companies focused on stress reduction, mindfulness, and mental clarity through live sound and guided listening.
Event Types: In-Person
ELEGANT GALA PERFORMANCE
A refined musical backdrop perfect for upscale events, providing a distinctive and memorable sonic atmosphere for guests.
Event Types: In-Person
INTERACTIVE CULTURAL PRESENTATION
A performance combined with storytelling, introducing audiences to the history, philosophy, and artistry of the shakuhachi.
Event Types: In-Person
OUTDOOR NATURE PERFORMANCE
A site-specific performance designed for gardens, retreats, or natural settings, enhancing the connection between sound and environment.
Event Types: In-Person
CONCERT + TALK: MUSIC BEYOND MUSIC
A thought-provoking program exploring the idea of sound as spiritual practice, drawing from Zen philosophy and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Event Types: In-Person
Reviews (4)
Lisa Rainsong
Case Western - Faculty
Shawn Head presented a fascinating lecture on Japanese musical notation and Japanese flute music for my sophomore Music Theory class. I was impressed with his ability to convey the subtle details of the music on his Japanese flute. The students found his presentation to be quite engaging and enjoyed it very much. I did as well!
Ariel Clayton Karas
Classical Revolution Cleveland - Director
Shawn Head's performance of Shakuhachi music during our recent Classical Revolution Cleveland show was truly stunning. His technical and musical command of the instrument were stunning, and the repertoire performed was captivating. It was the first time CRC has incorporated music from that genre in our shows, and it was eye-opening. We hope to have him back soon!
Yongfei Yi
Ohio State University - Faculty
Mr. Shawn Head did a wonderful job explaining Japanese aesthetics terms to a general audience. He was also good at getting students to participate in the lecture. His lecture was informative and entertaining. We all really enjoyed his lecture and admired his passion and knowledge.
Brian P. Herrington
Lone Star College - Conductor/Faculty
When I invited Shawn Renzoh Head to work with our orchestra in the premiere of his new concerto, my goal was to excite the students about new music and inspire our audience: Shawn Renzoh Head exceeded all of those aims. Performing with Shawn was a magical experience for me as a conductor, and our orchestral students were clearly captivated. The response from the audience was overwhelming. Shawn opened up new worlds for our students as he engaged them with charm and a generous spirit.