As part of the Bermuda International Language Institute's ongoing effort to familiarise the local community with Japanese culture, it is hosting an elegant banquet at the Sonesta Beach Hotel on February 22, at which Japanese Great Master Shakuhachi bamboo flutist, Yoshio Kurahashi, will perform.

Mr. Kurashi's 30-year career as an exponent of traditional Japanese music has taken him all over the world. He is also a recording artist whose CD, `Kyoto Spirit', was voted `Best World Music' in 1999 by the US magazine, New Age.

Sonesta's executive chef, Stephan Juliusburger, is preparing a gourmet, Japanese formal "Kaiseki" dinner for the event, which organisers are billing as "a wonderful, magical night with the sweet sound of music mixed with delicious warm sake in an enchanting setting". It will begin at 7.30 p.m.

Attendance will be limited to 130, and tickets ($175 per person) are available from the International Language Institute at 3, Canal Road, Hamilton, who will also deliver. Tables of eight or ten are reservable.

Proceeds will benefit the Institute, a registered charity, whose teacher, Japanese-born Mrs. Reiko Ward, teaches the language and culture to adults and children.

In addition to the banquet, Mr. Kurahashi will visit some schools to play for the students.

For further information ( 296-5676, fax 296-5678 or e-mail international.languagesnorthrock.bm.

Recording artist and Grammy nominee David Sanchez will headline Charles Bascome and C.M.B. Enterprise Ltd.'s 12th `Evening of Jazz' at City Hall Theatre on March 7 and 8. Regarded as one of the most important young jazz saxophonists today, Sanchez is renowned for his melding of jazz and Latin sounds. Tutored and influenced by jazz great Dizzy Gillespie, he is a critically acclaimed, charismatic soloist.

Appearing with Sanchez at City Hall will be Miguel Zenon (saxophone), Hans Glawischnig (bass) and Antonio Sanchez (drums), as well as local favourites, the Toni Bari duo. The event will be emceed by "CJ" Symonds. Tickets (patrons $70, others $55) are available at 27th Century Boutique, the People's Pharmacy, and from Charles Bascome.

Cheques should be made payable to CM.B. Enterprises Ltd. Part proceeds will be donated to the Charles Bascome Music Scholarship Fund. For further information ( 234-0453 or 234-9255 (cell).

The Roman Catholic Diocese is holding a silent auction of historical and contemporary Canadian paintings by students and predecessors of "The Group of Seven" when 45 pieces owned by the late Bishop Brian Hennessy, C.R. go under the hammer during a gala fund-raiser at La Coquille restaurant on February 14. Included are screen prints by A.J. Casson, an original member of The Group, important paintings by Joachim Gauthier, signed and numbred Inuit prints from the 1970s, and other works. Guests will view and place bids during a cocktail reception preceding a special-menu dinner. The event will begin at 7 p.m. and tickets are $100 per person. For reservations ( 232-4414. An auction preview will be held on February 14 from noon to 4 p.m., when bids will also be accepted.