Megumi ABIKO, folk music of Okinawa
The WABI SABI area welcomes Megumi ABIKO, who will make you discover all the mysteries of sanshin and shamisen!
Presentation
Her grandmother being a professor of folk songs (the minuyô) in Hokkaidô, Megumi ABIKO grew up in a musical environment. Thus, it was during her childhood that she started to feel curious and passionate about traditional songs.
Her taste for music developed during secondary school, in the Philippines, from where she returned with a new passion for Southern Islands' music.
In 2006, she discovers the sanshin, in Tôkyô. Touched by the soft sound of this Okinawa instrument, she decides to learn to play it by herself. Six months later, she was already giving showcase gigs at pubs in Okinawa, at Live Houses, etc.
In 2011, she participates in Ghiblinchu, a compilation of Ghibli songs revisited with the Okinawa style, and produced by DJ SASA. In 2013, she gives a concert at the Izumo Taisha sanctuary.
At the moment, she continues to develop her talent at the shamisen and minyô, with the help of Master Kitsu SHIGERI. She actively participates in volunteer events at senior centers, child care centers, as well as at centers for disabled people. She also regularly performs in many towns in Japan.