Amin Abbas

DUBAI: TOKIWA, a group of UAE-based musicians specializing in traditional Japanese instrumentals, made its debut show on Nov. 29 at Dubai’s Theatre of Digital Art (TODA), titled “The Echoes of Japan,” where they have crafted a first-of-its-kind experience in the Middle East that transcends a regular musical performance, enhanced with a 360-degree visual spectacle of Japan’s majestic scenery that complements each note.

The group was founded on the principle of bringing traditional Japanese music into a modern context through Japanese instruments such as, shakuhachi, koto, and taiko. It consists of expert musicians from around the globe.

The group mentioned exclusively to Arab News Japan about the highlights of their debut show at TODA: “Friday’s debut performance was a tapestry woven with the timeless threads of traditional Japanese musical instruments played by its four members: Taiko drums (James and Yuki), Koto strings (Mai), Shakuhachi flute (Kyle Chōmei), Shinobue flute (James), and Guitar/Vocals (Yuki). The evening resonated with the deep, ethereal tones on the shakuhachi, harmonized beautifully by the delicate and expressive plucking of the koto, which spun melodies as intricate and fine as woven silk. The dynamic rhythms of ancient matsuri songs brought to life by the taiko added a vigorous heartbeat to the performance.”

“Highlights included a stunning visual accompaniment to every song that enveloped the audience in a 360-degree embrace of beautiful landscapes and scenery; each note and beat were like a brushstroke painting the air with echoes of a distant past and whispers of the present. We also had the pleasure of having our special arts and culture partners in the foyer prior to the performance to make our debut concert extra special and offer the audience a holistic Japanese cultural experience—Japan Style, showcasing their kimonos, Mucharaka Tea offering flavored Japanese tea tasting, Ohara School of Ikebana UAE Chapter with live ikebana demonstration, and Suiho with live calligraphy demonstration,” they added.

The group said that the response to their debut show was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing a profound connection to the music and visuals. “The fusion of traditional sounds with modern interpretations left the audience spellbound, creating moments of deep reflection and exhilaration. Some were even moved to tears. The standing ovation was heartfelt, and the conversations afterward buzzed with admiration and a newfound appreciation for the depth and beauty of Japanese musical heritage,” the group said.

TOKIWA will perform at the Japan Festival in Dubai on Dec. 8 as the closing act on the Main Stage. “This event will allow us to further share our passion for Japanese musical arts with an even broader audience,” they shared. “In addition, we are committed to expanding our ensemble’s repertoire, continuously enriching our performances with new pieces that honor traditional roots while exploring innovative expressions. Each concert and composition represent a step forward in our ongoing journey to celebrate and spread Japanese musical traditions on a global stage.”