Mai Taniguchi

Mai Taniguchi is a koto performer and educator from Hy?go, Japan, specializing in both the preservation and contemporary evolution of one of Japan’s most iconic traditional instruments. With a history of over 1,300 years, the koto carries profound cultural resonance, and Taniguchi has dedicated her career to advancing its artistry on international stages.

A student of world-renowned koto virtuoso Kazue Sawai, Taniguchi earned her teaching license from the Sawai Koto Institute in 2014, receiving an Honorable Mention Award for her achievements. While firmly grounded in classical training, she brings innovative perspectives to her practice, collaborating with artists across genres—from classical and Arabic musicians to visual artists—expanding the koto’s expressive possibilities.

Since relocating to the UAE in 2023, Taniguchi has sought to build cross-cultural connections through performance, teaching, and collaboration. Her work embraces both the timeless elegance of Japanese tradition and the creative spirit of contemporary music, contributing to the UAE’s diverse and evolving cultural landscape.