Miya Masaoka (b. Washington, D.C., 1958) is an American musician and composer who performs on the 17-string Japanese koto zither, often augmenting it with string preparations and electronic triggers (as in her "Koto Monster", where additional laser beam "strings" hover over the koto).
She is known for creative, improvisational technique, and a sensibility that combines experimental Western approaches with the tradition of the koto.
Her compositions have included works for large ensembles, sometimes with unusual sound sources such as hives of bees, or the amplified sounds of human bodies (brain waves, heartbeat, etc). One notable piece was performed outdoors in a plaza on San Francisco's sometimes unsavory Market Street, utilizing an ensemble of dozens of musicians, a pair of male and female exotic dancers, and taped interviews with sex workers: "What's the Difference Between Stripping and Playing the Violin?" An impressive blend of musical composition, and site-specific conceptual art.
More on [ Miya Masaoka ]
American :: North America
Contemporary :: Composers
Electronic Music :: Contemporary
Late 20th Century :: Composers
Performers :: Koto
Composers :: Choral
Composers :: Jazz
Composers :: Women in Music
Composers :: Ballet
Artists :: Performance Art

Miya Masaoka - Biography from the Other Minds Festival touching on her wide range of musical accomplishments. Includes photograph of her playing the koto.
Miya Masaoka - Personal home page. Includes information about some of her compositions.
Meta Description: [ Official site of musician, composer and performance artist Miya Masaoka. Includes information on works, as well as photos, music files and video clips. ]
Miya Masaoka - Wikipedia article involving her works, performances, and teaching. Includes internal references to related people and topics and links.
Miya Masaoka - Article from AsianImprov.com emphasizing her free-form works and performances, jazz influences, and collaborations. Includes photograph and discography.
Yahoo! Music Miya Masaoka Page - Includes information about her albums.
| Miya Masaoka deaf dublin oct 07 | |
| Next Video | |