We are sad to report the death of Dr David W Hughes on 4 May 2025. Without David there would be no London Okinawa Sanshinkai.

David taught music at SOAS from 1987 until he retired in 2008. In that time, he helped to found the precursor to London Okinawa Sanshinkai, nurtured its development, and brought the Sonda Seinenkai to London in 2005 to teach and perform Eisā dancing.

David dancing

After retirement, David remained active in bringing Japanese music to the UK. He received the Japan Society Award in 2011 for outstanding contributions to Anglo Japanese relations and understanding.

David playing sanshin

In 2017 he received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, in recognition of his significant contribution to promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and the United Kingdom. Members of London Okinawa Sanshinkai played at the reception in 2018.

We send our love and condolences to his wife Gina and to his friends and family.

David playing guitar