- Japanese music · Live performance & creation
Japanese music in a new light.
ICCHO ISSHI creates original music with shakuhachi, biwa and trumpet. Inspired by Japan’s history and landscapes, the trio brings its music to concerts, events and creative projects.
Shakuhachi · Biwa · Trumpet About usThree musicians.
One sound all their own.Rooted in tradition.Alive in the moment.
Our name speaks to the rhythm between drawing tight and letting go. The breath of the shakuhachi, the resonance of the biwa and the clarity of the trumpet come together in music that feels both unmistakably Japanese and wholly its own.
Whether the setting is intimate or expansive, we want the music to stay with your audience long after the final note.
First album · Preview on YouTube
ListenHear the trio in action.
Start with a preview of our debut album. Onstage, every performance responds to the room, the audience and the moment.
Watch on YouTube ↗What we doMusic for the stage and beyond.
We work with event organizers, companies and creative teams. Tell us about the occasion, the audience and the experience you want to create.
01 / LIVE Live performance
Concerts, corporate gatherings, ceremonies, receptions and cultural programs. We discuss the program, duration, lineup and venue needs with you.
02 / ORIGINAL MUSIC Composition & production
Original music and arrangements for stage, television, film and other creative projects, shaped around your brief.
03 / STUDIO Recording
Studio performances that bring the distinct character of shakuhachi, biwa and trumpet to your production.
You don’t need a finalized plan to get in touch.
The musiciansMeet ICCHO ISSHI.
Three different paths converge in one ensemble.
Riho Akiyama
Trumpet · Satsuma biwa · Composition
A performer and composer whose work spans concerts, recordings, stage and screen. She also studies traditional sword performance.
Zenji Kazama
Shakuhachi · Japanese dance · Sword performance
A shakuhachi performer who brings movement and theatrical expression to the ensemble.
Kenshi Maeda
Shakuhachi · Chikuzen biwa · Shigin
Grounded in Japanese instrumental and vocal traditions, he has performed at events in Japan and abroad.
ExploreStay close to the music.
On stageSee us live.
Find upcoming performances and ticket information on our events page.
Explore events ↗Take it homeAlbums & original goods.
Explore our debut album and original merchandise. The store is in Japanese.
Visit the store ↗How we workFrom first idea to final note.
A simple conversation is enough to get started.
01Tell us your idea
Share the occasion or project, preferred date, location and what you have in mind so far.
02Shape the music
We discuss the program or production approach, practical needs and an estimate.
03Bring it to life
Once the details are agreed, we prepare the music in coordination with your team.
Good to knowFrequently asked questions.
Can we contact you before the plan is final?
Of course. Tell us what you know so far, and we can discuss what would work for your event or project.
How long can a performance be?
We can discuss the length and program in relation to your schedule and venue.
What about technical requirements and fees?
These depend on the format, venue and scope. We review the details with you and provide an estimate.
Can you work on projects outside Japan?
Send us the location, dates and project outline so we can discuss feasibility and logistics.
ContactLet’s talk about your project.
Have a date or venue in mind? Great. Still exploring? That’s fine, too. Share a few details below, and we’ll reply by email.
Prefer email? contact@flatthird.com