Events

Time and Location

August 6, 7:00pm
Joe’s Pub (New York, NY)

About

With support from the Japan Foundation, Joe’s Pub presented a performance by MIKAGE PROJECT, a group of three musicians that showcases a unique blend of traditional Japanese folk music, minyo, with a modern taste. Folk songs are the musical treasures of everyday people, reflecting a glimpse into the rich tapestry of local colors and lifestyles across regions.

MIKAGE PROJECT – “MIKAGE” meaning “divine spirit” – aims to cherish and share the beauty of these songs, preserving their spirit for future generations.

Audiences enjoyed a diverse setlist with lively rhythms and melodies, with opportunities for the audience to dance and sing along.

For more information, please visit: Mikage Project at Joe’s Pub

Artists
Koki Sato (Shakuhachi, bamboo flute):
Born as the eldest son of a family of folk musicians, he started performing at a young age. After graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts, he has been producing and performing across various genre.

Sho Asano (Tsugaru shamisen, vocal):
With his grandfather’s encouragement he began to learn the Tsugaru shamisen at five. Since graduating from Keio University, he has performed worldwide, showcasing the appeal of minyo and shamisen combining modern style.

Takashi Honma (25-string koto): Having trained koto by his mother from the age of three, he graduated from the Music Course of Toho Gakuen College of Music and Drama, majoring in Japanese music. In addition to composing music and performing, he has been active on a range of fronts around the world.

Instruments
Traditional instruments played in the concert are as follows:

SHAKUHACHI:
One of Japan’s representative woodwind instruments crafted from bamboo known for its diverse pitch ranges and scales.

SHINOBUE:
A Japanese transverse flute also made from bamboo, used for festivals, kagura shrine dances, lion dances, and various traditional music.

SHAMISEN:
A Japanese three-stringed lute played using a plectrum called a bachi. With the Tsugaru shamisen, players strike the strings vigorously, producing rhythm while playing the melody.

KOTO:
A Japanese zither seen as symbolizing the dragon. With a modified 25-string koto, an innovative arrangement of Japanese folk songs with diverse musical style is performed.

• Featured