ARIZONA 2026 Music | Scottsdale | Arizona State University (ASU) Kerr Cultural Center Hosts Japanese Musicians MAOSHO (Piano & Shamisen) | Sunday, September 6 at 4PM
Together, ASU Kerr, Mar Creation, Moon, Inc., and the Japanese Culture Club of Arizona are committed to enriching Arizona’s arts community through exceptional cultural programming that strengthens Japan–Arizona.
September 6 at 4 p.m. at Arizona State University (ASU) Kerr Cultural Center|
6110 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85253
(west of Scottsdale Rd. off of Rose Ln.)
Ticketmaster: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/190064F1FDD4A554
Box office: 480–596–2660
MAOSHO brings together two acclaimed Japanese musicians whose backgrounds span traditional and contemporary music. Jazz pianist and trumpeter Mao Sone joins shamisen performer and folk singer Sho Asano for a program that blends Japanese folk traditions with jazz improvisation.
The duo combines the sounds of Tsugaru shamisen, piano, trumpet and voice in performances that explore connections between Japanese music and jazz. Following a series of well-received concerts in New York City in 2025, MAOSHO continues to share a collaboration that bridges musical traditions while creating something new.
Performers
Mao Sone, piano and trumpet
Sho Asano, shamisen and voice
About Mao Sone
Mao Sone is a Japanese pianist, trumpeter and composer known for his work across jazz and contemporary music. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, he performs internationally as both a pianist and trumpeter.
About Sho Asano
Sho Asano is a Japanese shamisen performer, folk singer and composer. A former child prodigy and award-winning performer, he has appeared throughout Japan and abroad, bringing traditional Japanese music to audiences around the world.