Learn Japanese Calligraphy Lessons 1 - 6

I have been interested in Japanese Calligraphy for years. I've purchased many popular books on the subject but was ready to give up in total frustration, not only because of the impossibility of trying to learn calligraphy strokes from a book but also because of the level of the Japanese language required. I was surprised and delighted to find in Takase Sensei's course strokes demonstrated, through videos, in minute detail, dynamically and almost exaggerated, and then frame by frame explanations and samples. There is no way to obtain this level of detail, and it is absolutely essential in calligraphy, from a book. Now I can actually see how it is suppose to be done..

The videos showing students doing some of the characters, with Takase Sensei making corrections and suggestions, really helps me see and correct my own mistakes and bad habits. It is almost like having my own private instructor, available any time, day or night, there for me whenever I have time to study my calligraphy.

Knowledge of Japanese isn't required but for those, like me, that are serious about learning the language too, I can improve my language skills as I learn Japanese Calligraphy. The translations given on the CD and the proper pronunciation of all terms are valuable learning tools.

I do have to admit that I initially had trouble getting the video to play right but solved the problem after visiting the Shodokai forum. I found I needed to install version 7 of the Windows Media Player. Now it works like a charm.

Another reviewer said that this is a valuable resource for the serious student and I whole-heartedly agree. The title of this course is a bit misleading in one respect. It is also a useful resource for those studying Chinese Calligraphy.

Finally All The Details!
I have bought all the books but have been frustrated and finally here are all the details. The lessons start with a detailed discussion of the tools, what to buy and what to look for. Then video and explanations are given on posture, how to grind the ink and how to properly hold the brush. Finally each character is covered in great detail with very good quality video of Takase Sensei drawing the character. Then a step by step, point by point analysis of what is happening in the video is given. And what I really like are the student samples and corrections including actual size images of the corrections.

Takase Sensei does not cover a large number of characters in this first CD-ROM and instead covers important characters in great detail. This course has it all and I am looking forward to the next CD-ROM.

If you are seriously interested in learning Japanese/Chinese Calligraphy then this is the course for you.