Hiroe Morikawa is an accomplished master of the koto, a Japanese stringed instrument with a rich cultural history. Coming from a distinguished lineage in traditional Japanese music that spans three generations, she began learning the koto from her mother at the age of three and the shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) from her father at the age of six. During her younger years, Hiroe was recognized with the coveted Minister of Education Award, and she debuted as a professional koto artist in 2002. She also had the opportunity to study under the late Katsuya Yokoyama, a world-renowned Japanese musician who gained international acclaim for his performance with the New York Philharmonic in 1967. 

Embracing innovation while rooted in classical tradition, Hiroe pioneered avant-garde techniques that have resonated across diverse artistic realms—collaborating with various music genres, art forms, visual media, and theatrical productions. She frequently performs on TV and radio programs, as well as at cross-cultural celebrations and festivals across Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond. Most notably, she has contributed her talent to the Avatar: The Last Airbender Netflix series, the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony, and the widely viewed Genshin Online Concert 2023 (with more than 6 million views). She also performs regularly at temples, including annual dedication concerts at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shinto Shrine, an important 800-plus-year-old cultural site in Japan’s ancient capital of Kamakura.

Beyond her musical pursuits, Hiroe has been formally recognized and registered within the geisha community, enriching her perspective with a profound appreciation for Japanese aesthetics and cultural heritage.

Hiroe strives to preserve and build upon Japan's rich musical traditions in both her artistic achievements and cultural contributions, and she looks forward to giving koto performances on board during the voyage.

Language spoken: English, Japanese