Japan's leading traditional music group to perform in Vietnam

According to information from the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam, for the first time, the AKATSUKI music group consisting of four top Japanese musicians will perform in Vietnam, with performances featuring traditional melodies of the Land of the Rising Sun.
AKATSUKI music group. (Photo: Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam)
AKATSUKI music group. (Photo: Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam)

The programme is organised by the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam - Japan International Exchange Fund in coordination with the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association in Hue.

This is a cultural exchange trip of four Japanese musicians with the mission of bringing traditional Japanese melodies to international audiences. They hope to use the connecting power of music to break down language barriers and further strengthen the relationship between Japan and Asian countries.

The programme promises to bring the audience an impressive performance, while contributing to building a bridge between Vietnam and Japan based on the spirit of understanding, appreciation, and artistic cooperation.

AKATSUKI brings together four talented artists: Nobutaka Yoshizawa (Koto), Nobuhiro Kaneko (Koto), Junya Okochi (Shakuhachi), and Yuta Kanazashi (Wadaiko drum). Each artist brings their own unique style, combining tradition with contemporary innovations.

The musical instruments used in the program — the koto, shakuhachi and wadaiko — all carry profound cultural values.

Through their performances, AKATSUKI breathes life into ancient sounds, connecting the past with the present.

In addition to the main concert program, AKATSUKI has also organised small performances at four schools in Hue, aiming to introduce students to the beauty of Japanese performing arts. Through this, students will have the opportunity to explore and appreciate traditional cultural values and be inspired to learn more about their artistic heritage.

The program will take place at the Song Huong Theatre, No. 1 Le Loi, Vinh Ninh Ward, Hue City, at 7:30 p.m. on March 8.

NDO