Hanz Araki
Today’s featured performer is Hanz Araki
The 2020 Samhain Celtic New Year Festival is excited to welcome Hanz Araki
Considered one of the most talented Irish musicians in America today, flautist, whistle player, singer, and Juno Award winner, Hanz Araki has been lauded by publications and audiences alike.
As a sixth generation of his family to bear the title Araki Kodo, Hanz spent his early years mastering the Japanese end-blown bamboo flute. Hanz recognized the similarities between the shakuhachi and the Irish whistle. Honoring his Irish heritage, he took advantage of the rich Irish music scene in Seattle and became known for his instrumental work on the Irish whistle and flute, as well as his haunting singing voice.
Hanz has released twelve albums, his latest the 2019 critically acclaimed At Our Next Meeting recorded with Donogh Hennessey in Dingle, Co. Kerry. Hanz has performed at numerous festivals, as well as with the Seattle Symphony, at the Gates Estate and for the Japanese Consul General.
