MIKAGE PROJECT

Formed in December 2020, MIKAGE PROJECT is a group of musicians who compose and arrange minyo folk songs of various regions with a contemporary sensibility, promoting their allure within Japan and abroad.

“MIKAGE” refers to the soul or spirit of gods and buddhas. The group’s foundational principle is to preserve the sonic spirits of our predecessors for future generations through folk songs from around the world. MIKAGE PROJECT consists of three talented members, each of whom has explored the potential of traditional Japanese instruments: SATO Kouki (shakuhachi, shinobue, ohayashi, percussion instruments), ASANO Sho (Tsugaru shamisen, vocals), and HONMA Takashi (25-string koto).

Each member began learning their respective instrument under family tutelage from a young age and has achieved distinction in both domestic and international competitions. Attracting attention for superb instrumental techniques and a style incorporating a broad range of musical genres, MIKAGE PROJECT appeared on NHK’s Minyo Damashii, a TV program about folk songs, less than a year after the group’s formation. They released their first EP, MIKAGE PROJECT, in April 2021, followed by their second EP, NEO BUSHI, in May 2022, and their third EP, KeHaRe, in May 2023. With their unparalleled, refined sensibilities and harmonies, they are carving out a new niche for folk songs and drawing significant attention from the music industry.

Asmidar

Synonymous with classic and traditional music, Asmidar’s artistic journey began at 12. She went on to win several locally renowned competitions, such as Bintang RTM and Bintang Asli. Following the footstep of her mother, she paved her way to the local industry as a Malay traditional music entertainer.

Graduated with a Diploma of Performing Arts majoring in music, her journey in her career continues to pick up as her music takes her to international platforms such as representing Malaysia for the World Championship of Performing Art in Los Angeles and winning several medals, as well as the global singing competition by the biggest Indonesian television cable, Indosiar. Passionate and enthusiastic, Asmidar wants to continuously be recognized as a Traditional and Classic singer in Malaysia and share Malaysian traditional culture and music with the world with her twist.

Asmidar believes that the uniqueness of Malay traditional sound is not to be forgotten, and with passion and love, it should be celebrated until the end of time. With the vast knowledge and experience she has gained; she is also providing private singing lessons and vocal training on traditional and contemporary music in Malay and English. Apart from teaching, she remains active in performing and is one of the SUHU band members, performing in a fusion of ethnic-jazz-rock music.