Kakeru Nohara

Born on Taketomi Island in 2003, Kakeru Nohara participated at the island’s traditional Tanadui Festival, which is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. He has served as a jiutai (traditional flute accompanist) for over a decade since he was 10 years old. During high school he was a member of the Folk Performing Arts Club, winning 2 prefectural championships and placing 3rd at the national competition. After moving to Tokyo for university, he served as the captain of the university’s Japanese drum club, and perfomed at numerous events and concerts. In addition to his work at the traditional music, he has collaborated with various renowned artists such as BEGIN, Yukito Ara and Hiromi Kinjo. Nohara aims to preserve the Tanadui Festival of Taketomi and to contribute to support the next generation of successors.