Michiyo Yagi

Michiyo Yagi is a groundbreaking Japanese koto player who’s spent decades redefining the possibilities of her 21-string traditional instrument. Known for her fearless fusion of jazz, avant-garde, and psychedelic rock with classical Japanese music, she’s collaborated with artists like Keiji Haino and DJ Krush while maintaining deep roots in improvisation. Her performances balance explosive energy with delicate precision, often transforming the koto into a vehicle for cosmic soundscapes or percussive experimentation.

Recent releases like *Bibi* and *KOKOO -ZOOM-* showcase her genre-defying approach, while *Live at SuperDeluxe* captures her electrifying stage presence. Yagi continues to push boundaries, whether through solo work, cross-cultural collaborations, or mentoring younger musicians in Tokyo’s experimental scene. Her career stands as a vibrant bridge between tradition and futurism.