Spirit of Himeji Japan: Shamisen and Traditional Buyō Concert

This program is sponsored by the Phoenix Sister City Himeji Committee and will be featured as the first official artist exchange between the two cities at Matsuri.

Celebrate the opening of Arizona Matsuri with an unforgettable evening of live music, dance, and cultural exchange at the Japanese Friendship Garden. Matsuri Kickoff Live brings together exceptional performers from Himeji, Japan and Arizona for a vibrant program that honors tradition while engaging contemporary audiences.

The evening begins with the uplifting voices of the Phoenix Children’s Chorus, followed by a powerful collaboration of Japanese classical and folk dance and the dynamic sounds of the Tsugaru shamisen, performed by talented artists from Japan. Together, these performances offer a rare opportunity to experience the energy, elegance, and emotional depth of Japanese performing arts, live and up close.

Enjoy an unforgettable night of music, culture, and flavor in the serene beauty of the Garden.