Rodrigo Rodriguez was born in Argentina, but moved to Spain as a child. In Japan he studied shakuhachi and since gone on to perform shakuahchi around the world. This album is dedicated to the Japanese samurai Hasekura Rokuemon Tsunenaga (1571-1622) who between 1613 and 1620 headed a diplomatic mission to the Vatican, travelling through Spain and other parts of Europe. Traditional, contemporary and original pieces are beautifully performed with help from British shakuhachi player Justin Williams on several shakuhachi duets, and harpist Elena Armenteros. This project was part of the Dual Year Spain/Japan 2013/14, and was apparently selected as a gift for Prince Naruhito when he visited Spain. Impressive playing, beautifully recorded with English liner notes.
1. Kumoi Jishi 2. Sagari Ha 3. 5 October 1614 4. Sanya Sugagaki 5. Shika no Tone 6. Kogarashi 7. Azuma Jishi 8. Dialogues King Phillip III 9. Departures to Rome 10. Azuma Jishi Duet 11. Beneath High Cliffs 12. Towards God (Hasekura's baptism) 13. Arrival in Sendai
