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What People Say
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...about her performances
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"The sound of the Koto filling the Ming Tomb Gallery created a wonderful
effect and truly enhanced the oriental atmosphere of the evening."
Lynne Stirling, Protocol Officer, City of Toronto,
Department of the City Clerk, Protocol and Civic Events Office
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"...we especially appreciated
your skills in explaining what was, for our audience, an exotic musical
culture and making it come alive."
Ben Steinberg, Director of Music, Temple Sinai
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"... beautiful koto performance... We were fortunate to have been able to
find a koto player who has attained such high ranks and performance standards
as yourself. [...] We were all touched by the grace and expressiveness of
your playing."
Gary Nagata, Artistic Director, Toronto Suwa Daiko
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"...your expert musical talent created an enchanting atmosphere at the McMichael."
Dawn L. Sinko, Special Events Co-ordinator,
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
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"...an inspiring concert... Everyone that I've talked to since the concert has
had nothing but praise for your music and your talents."
Lynda Chantson, President, Scarborough College
Music Club, Scarborough College, University of Toronto
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"The traditional koto music was a beautiful complement to the works on
display. Our guests enjoyed your informative remarks on Japanese music and
the instrument..."
Stuart Reid, Curator, Art Gallery of
Mississauga
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...about her teaching
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"Growing up in Hong Kong,
one of the busiest cities in the Far East, I always wanted to play the koto.
Although Hong Kong and Japan are only a 4-hour flight apart, finding a koto
teacher was impossible back then. Only when I immigrated to Toronto 12 years
ago, did I have an opportunity to learn how to play the koto with Linda as
my teacher.
I started my first koto lesson with trepidation as I had limited musical
training in Hong Kong. Linda assured me that this would never be an issue
and patiently started my basic training. Over the years, I have benefited
from Linda's teaching, her insights into Japanese classical music, as well
as her passion for koto. Linda has also transformed me from a novice who
knew little Japanese music to a proficient koto player capable of performing
in public.
Koto music brings me tremendous joy, whether I'm learning a lovely folk
song in just two lessons or studying a classical piece over a couple of months.
Whether playing on a bright summer day or a cold winter evening, this music
always warms my heart and touches my soul. Words cannot describe the feelings
that the music evokes in me; only when you play, will you know what beauty
is all about."
Estelle Ma, Toronto
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"I have been interested in traditional Japanese culture for some time and
after attending a wonderful outdoor performance of koto music in Japan, I
dreamed of learning to play such a beautiful and intriguing instrument. I
am delighted to say that my dream has come true thanks to my koto teacher,
Linda Caplan.
Linda’s teaching and performing credentials are impeccable. As a teacher,
her knowledge, attention to detail, and patience have allowed me to progress
through the beginning koto repertoire at a steady but comfortable pace. I am
especially pleased to report that as a student with no previous musical
training of any kind, I am well on my way to earning my first koto certificate.
Linda is also an accomplished performer. The high calibre of her koto
playing is an inspiration to me and indeed, to all her students. I believe
that Linda’s performing adds a significant dimension to her teaching as well.
By watching Linda play in public, I have learned valuable lessons about good
stage presence, the importance of proper playing techniques, and Japanese
musical aesthetics.
I would like to conclude by saying that Linda is a generous and caring
teacher. She is always willing to answer my questions about Japanese and
western music. She is happy to share her knowledge of the Japanese tea
ceremony, kimono, and food. I continue to benefit from her help
with my Japanese language studies. Linda Caplan is an excellent
teacher and I would recommend her highly to anyone interested in
learning to play the koto."
J. Clarke, Toronto
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