Profile

Kanae Nozawa’s musical journey began with a fateful encounter with the erhu during a theater role as an actress. Enchanted by its soulful resonance, she embarked on a career as an erhu player. In January 2007, Kanae became the first Japanese erhu artist to debut with a major record label, earning acclaim for her lyrical, almost vocal-like playing style, often described as “singing through the strings.” Her glamorous tone transcends the traditional boundaries of the Chinese instrument, blending seamlessly with pop and classical genres, captivating audiences worldwide. Kanae’s original compositions, rich with creativity, and her magnetic stage presence have earned her a devoted following across generations. In recent years, she has also embraced vocal performance, with her clear, emotive voice receiving praise from fellow musicians.

 

Kanae contributes to Japanese anime and film soundtracks, showcasing her versatility in cinematic music. Since 2014, she has collaborated with Japanese Academy Award-winning composer Tamiya Terashima, producing narrative-driven albums that solidify her unique musical identity. Her international career includes successful concerts in Taiwan (2009) and Shanghai (2010). In Finland, starting with her debut concert in 2018, Kanae has performed annually, with her 2024 four-city tour earning widespread acclaim as “the most beautiful concert ever heard” by many attendees. Through YouTube, she actively collaborates with global artists, expanding her presence in the international music scene. In May 2025, alongside Terashima, Kanae performed with an Italian orchestra at the Sharjah Animation Conference in the UAE, receiving rave reviews. Blending classical, pop, and ethnic music, she continues to enchant global audiences with her innovative artistry.