Traditional Music Concert
ECHOES ACROSS CULTURES: AKATSUKI LIVE IN HUE
for the 1^st time

A CULTURAL BRIDGE THROUGH MUSIC

For the first time, AKATSUKI, a unit of four outstanding musicians at the forefront of Japan’s music scene, embarks on a cultural exchange journey, sharing traditional Japanese music and instruments. Their mission is to foster deeper connections between Japan and ASEAN countries, transcending language barriers through the universal power of music. The name “AKATSUKI,” meaning “dawn” in Japanese, also refers to the beautiful and passionate image of “red moon” – the color reflected on the moon surface when it is close to the horizon, symbolizing the fresh start of a new era for cultural connection.

Organized by The Japan Foundation with support from Vietnam – Japan Friendship Association in Hue, this initiative extends beyond performance, aiming to partly build a bridge of empathy, appreciation, and artistic collaboration between Japan and Vietnam.

The unit comprises four accomplished musicians: Nobutaka Yoshizawa (Koto), Nobuhiro Kaneko (Koto), Junya Okochi (Shakuhachi), and Yuta Kanazashi (Wadaiko drum). Each artist brings a unique approach, blending tradition with innovation. Yoshizawa sets his mind on collective practice in collaboration with artists from diverse disciplines, Kaneko integrates koto music into different artistic fields, Okochi infuses shakuhachi into a variety of stage performances, while Kanazashi energizes Wadaiko drumming with dynamic expression. Together, they push the boundaries of traditional Japanese music, making it resonate with modern audiences.

Their instruments—koto, shakuhachi, and Wadaiko—hold deep cultural significance. The koto, introduced during the Nara period, became a symbol of court music. The shakuhachi, once played by Zen monks, carries meditative and expressive depth. The Wadaiko drum, rooted in religious ceremonies and festivals, embodies the heartbeat of Japanese tradition. Through their performances, AKATSUKI breathes new life into these ancient sounds, linking past and present.

This visit aspires to leave a lasting mark on the history of both nations, serving as the dawn of true cultural exchange. Alongside the main concert, AKATSUKI will conduct small performances at four schools in Hue – Nguyen Tri Phuong Secondary School, Quoc Hoc High School, Hai Ba Trung High School and Nguyen Hue High School, introducing students to the beauty of Japanese performing arts. These performances aim to nurture cultural appreciation and inspire the next generation to explore their artistic heritage.

AKATSUKI’s visit is more than a concert—it is a cultural dialogue that strengthens historical ties and envisions a future of deeper artistic collaboration. Through music, they celebrate harmony, diversity, and the shared human experience.

EVENT INFORMATION

■ Credits                                                                                            

Organized by: The Japan Foundation
Supported by: Vietnam – Japan Friendship Association in Hue

■ Production Team                                                                        

Coordination: Hiroaki Onogi (Koten Kukan Co., Ltd.)
Production: Tomohide Uyama (Whoopee Connection Co., Ltd.)
Sound Engineer: Taisuke Kajino (Stage Mind Co., Ltd.)

ARTIST PROFILE

NOBUTAKA YOSHIZAWA (Musician, Koto/Artist)

Born in 1982 in Tochigi Prefecture, Nobutaka Yoshizawa began playing koto at the age of seven under the guidance of Fumiko Waku. He pursued his studies in musicology at Tokai University’s Art Department (2001-2005), followed by advanced training in Acoustic Arts at Tokai University’s Graduate School (2005-2007), where he studied koto under Chieko Fukunaga. In 2006, he was selected by the Agency for Cultural Affairs’ Rising Artist Training Program, which enabled him to refine his artistry in koto and 17-string koto under masters such as Teiko Kikuchi, while also studying Jiuta Sangen with Miho Ashigaki and musical analysis with Takehito Shimazu.

Winner of 1st Prize at the 15th Kenjun Commemorative National Koto Music Competition (2008), Yoshizawa launched “NOBU-LAB.”, a concert project connecting artists from diverse fields. In 2023, he received the Yamato City Cultural and Artistic Future Award for his contributions to artistic innovation. Currently, he is a lecturer at Tokai University, a mentor in Shiga Prefecture’s Traditional Music Training Program, and a workshop leader at Tokyo Bunka Kaikan.

NOBUHIRO KANEKO (Musician, Koto/Artist)

Beginning his koto studies at the age of nine, Kaneko quickly developed a deep passion for traditional Japanese music. He pursued formal education in the Japanese Music Program at Toho Gakuen College of Drama and Music, studying under Sōju Nosaka, Michiko Takita, and later Eri Nosaka. He has received numerous accolades, including the Encouragement Prize at the 1st and 2nd Tonegawa Hidehō Memorial Japanese Music Competitions, the Silver Prize at the 22nd Kenjun National Koto Music Competition, and Best New Performer at the 29th Ichikawa City Cultural Promotion Competition.

Currently, he is actively contributing to koto music expansion not only by offering private lessons but also performing in a wide range of groups, namely Mutsuno-o, TRAD JAPAN, Wajo, and participating in collaborative projects such as the new Kabuki adaptation of “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” (2019). He has just released his CD “Ichion, ichie” (One sound, one meeting).

JUNYA OKOCHI (Musician, Shakuhachi flute/Artist)

Born in Kira Town, Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture, Okochi graduated from Toho Gakuen College of Drama and Music, majoring in Japanese Music with a specialization in shakuhachi. He further honed his skills at the NHK Traditional Music Training Program (55th class), receiving extensive training in traditional Japanese music.

Blending tradition with innovation, he seamlessly integrates orchestral collaborations, theater, dance, calligraphy, and storytelling into his performances. His global tours with violinist Tatsuya Yamauchi earned him the Minister of Foreign Affairs’ Commendation in 2012.

Dedicated to music education, he frequently performs at school concerts, introducing young audiences to traditional Japanese music. He has released three original CDs—”Nostalgia,” “Thanks from the Bottom of My Heart,” and “Hachi ∞ En”. Currently, he is a lecturer at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music and the Institute for Contemporary Japanese Music, continuing to push the boundaries of traditional and contemporary Japanese music.

YUTA KANAZASHI (Musician, Wadaiko drum/Artist)

Born in 1984, Kanazashi began playing wadaiko (Japanese drums) at the age of nine. In 2001, while still in high school, he formed the wadaiko ensemble “Hayato” with his two older brothers, marking the start of his professional career. His training extended beyond wadaiko, as he also studied Nihon Buyo (Japanese traditional dance) and tsuzumi (hand drums), deepening his understanding of traditional performing arts.

With a vision to redefine the perception of wadaiko, Yuta actively collaborate with musicians using a wide range of instruments, including tsugaru shamisen, shakuhachi, marimba. His performances blend tradition with modernity, making wadaiko more accessible to a broader audience. His dynamic and innovative drumming style has garnered widespread acclaim, leading to performance at the MLB Opening Ceremony in Japan.
Passionate about music education, he conducts over 80 school performances annually, striving to introduce the younger generation to the power and beauty of traditional Japanese music.

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For inquiries on the concert and artists interview, please contact at:
____________________________________________________
Ms. Hương (024-3944-7419, ext. 106) / Mr. Osuka (070-513-7550)
The Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam
27 Quang Trung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
TEL: 024-3944-7419