From traditional stages to contemporary rock, pop and jazz concerts, this three-stringed instrument has forged art and entertainment culture in Japan for centuries and continues to shape new spheres in world music. These four sessions spotlight leading shamisen musicians from Japan performing the full gamut of today’s musical styles.
Tsugaru-shamisen rock, pop and jazz virtuoso Hiromitsu Agatsuma and musical luminary pianist/singer-songwriter Akiko Yano perform together for the first time ever. United by their inimitable ability to transform the sentimental strains of Japan's beloved folk songs (min'yo) into cool jazz/pop tunes, Agatsuma and Yano use 3 strings, 88 keys and endearing vocals to breathe new life into this musical genre. Sure to deliver sparks, explosions and surprises, this one-of-a-kind collaboration is not to be missed!