Wagakki Unit REN, composed of two of Japan’s most acclaimed traditional musicians — shakuhachi player Masaki Nakamura and koto performer Kiyoshi Ibukuro — is renowned for its originality and dynamic musical expression inspired by the breath of nature. Their exceptional artistry and technical mastery have earned high acclaim both in Japan and internationally, transcending the boundaries of traditional Japanese music.

On August 29, 2026 (Saturday), REN will present their concert 'Kagerou Symphonia' as part of the Ebina lala Live - Summer - series, hosted by the Ebina City Cultural Hall. This concert has been made possible through the planning and coordination of Eureka Blue, in collaboration with the Ebina City Cultural Hall.

To commemorate the 'lala Live - Summer - Kagerou Symphonia' concert, Eureka Blue is offering special REN-themed gifts to those who reserve tickets through the priority booking channel. Those interested in priority ticket access are invited to apply using the details below.

【Application Method】 Please send an email to [email protected] with the following information: ■ Full name ■ Number of attendees (General / High school and under) ■ Daytime contact phone number

You will receive a follow-up email with information on seat availability in the priority block, payment methods, and further instructions.

Flyer for the REN 'Kagerou Symphonia' Concert on August 29 (Saturday)

【Event Overview: Ebina lala Live - Summer - Kagerou Symphonia】 Date: August 29, 2026 (Saturday) Time: Doors open 14:15 / Performance starts 15:00

Admission: Reserved seating (tax included) General: ¥2,500 High school students and under: ¥500

※ Children under 3 years old are not permitted to enter.

※ High school students and younger must present valid age-verification ID at the venue.

※ Customers requiring wheelchair-accessible seating should contact Ebina City Cultural Hall in advance.

※ No cancellations, changes, or re-issuance of lost tickets after purchase.

【Resale for Profit Prohibited – Entry with Resale Tickets Not Permitted】

Venue: Small Hall Hosted by: Ebina City Cultural Hall (Designated Manager: K-Mix Public Business Co., Ltd.) Supported by: City of Ebina

Inquiries: Ebina City Cultural Hall TEL: 046-232-3231 (Main)

【About Wagakki Unit REN】

A traditional Japanese music ensemble formed by shakuhachi player Masaki Nakamura and koto performer Kiyoshi Ibukuro. REN creates original compositions inspired by nature and performs globally, including nationwide tours and concerts in over 12 countries. Utilizing Japan’s traditional instruments — the shakuhachi and koto — the duo delivers powerful storytelling and technical brilliance, offering audiences new surprises and discoveries. Their fresh, creative live performances, incorporating elements of dance and improvisation, are highly praised both domestically and internationally.

Masaki Nakamura – Shakuhachi Performer, Composer, Lyricist Born in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture Founder and leader of REN

Shakuhachi – Masaki Nakamura

Discovered the shakuhachi at age 17 and was captivated by its expressive power, leading him to study at Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Japanese Music, specializing in shakuhachi. Winner of multiple competitions, including the 6th Shakuhachi Newcomer King Tournament and the 3rd Tokyo Traditional Music Competition. Awarded the Yomiuri Shimbun Prize, Japan Folk Song Association Prize, Uwajima Grand Prize, and Best Debutant of the Year 2018. Has performed over 100 concerts at temples and shrines including Kasuga Taisha, and over 20 international performances. Has released 10 solo albums and participated in over 30 others. Made major debut in 2017 under avex as Sakuyama Tsubasa with Sakuramen with the single 'Tsukihana Yoru'. Released Sakuramen’s first album 'Hana no Daienbu-kai' in May 2020. His original compositions, which reflect nature and inner consciousness while preserving the authentic sound of the shakuhachi, have received high acclaim.

Official Website https://www.masaki-nakamura.com/ X (Twitter) https://twitter.com/masakingngn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/masakingngn/ YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPF-g-LTQM8bpM38VmWMApw Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/1983masaki

Kiyoshi Ibukuro – Koto Performer

Koto – Kiyoshi Ibukuro

Has participated in concerts in over 12 countries. Known for creating works with strong narrative elements, he has published multiple original scores and arrangements with Zen-On Music Company. Also supervised the development of the cultural koto 'Shirasagi'. Currently active as a member of 'Kafugetsu' (since 2012) and 'REN' (since 2004), while his former band, a wagakki group, is on indefinite hiatus.

2013–2024: Active as a member of a wagakki band, performing at venues such as Nippon Budokan, Yokohama Arena, and Osaka-jo Hall, as well as at Nikko Toshogu, Munakata Taisha, and Izumo Taisha. During the pandemic, initiated the 'Taru募金' (Barrel Donation) project to support Japan’s traditional industries together with fans. (Band entered indefinite hiatus in 2024)

2020–: Collaborated with T. KUNITOMO to create art-inspired fashion and accessories featuring his own photography, blending art into daily life.

2022–: Began writing columns and articles beyond songwriting. Limited-edition apparel and photo panels were sold in collaboration with Kyoto-based hand-painted yuzen artist Nao.

2023–: Appointed as 'Fukuyama Traditional Industry Support Ambassador' after serving as 'Fukuyama Castle 400th Anniversary Supporter', promoting Fukuyama City’s traditional koto-making industry, the top producer in Japan.

2024–: Launched 'Kimono Sanpo' (Kimono Walk), a project offering beginners a full-day kimono experience. Also hosted 'First Koto Experience' workshops for newcomers.

2025–: Producing the kimono brand 'Hana no Toki', promoting Japanese culture from multiple angles. Released his first solo CD, 'ANTINOMIE'.

Official Website https://www.kiyoshi-ibukuro.com/ X (Twitter) https://twitter.com/bsmpl Instagram https://www.instagram.com/b.smpl/

【Latest News from REN】 ■ New Album 'Echoes of Earth' to be released in July 2026 At the Ebina lala Live - Summer - Kagerou Symphonia concert, audiences will enjoy many new pieces from this upcoming album.

New Album 'Echoes of Earth'

On August 5 (Wednesday) at 21:00, Masaki Nakamura and Kiyoshi Ibukuro will appear as guest hosts on FM Kaon’s community radio program 'TABITO Japan’s Wellness Life'.

https://tabitojapan.com/tabitoandfmkaon/

Eureka Blue will be involved in 2026

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event
  • Organizations: avex