Japanese artists are saying “Konichiva” to Moscow audiences. This week the festival of Japanese music, called “J-Sounds”, has kicked off at Moscow Gnessin State Musical Hall.

The Hall is said to be one of Moscow's most-prestigious Music Academies. Having clear acoustics, it could hold such an outstanding event.

Japanese musician Hiromitsu Agatsuma was the first to open the J-Sounds show. The eminent musician has chosen a Russian balalaika (instrument of Russian origin, with a triangular recognisable body and 3 strings) and piano to provide accompanying music.

He performed using an ancient string instrument, called the “tsugaru shamisen”. It is a three-stringed musical instrument played with a special plectrum.

“Blind musicians used this old instrument to sing their sad songs, earning enough for a bowl of rice. In ancient times they were despised by common people,” says Agatsuma.

As well as melancholic songs from ancient times, he also performs his own works in an attempt to make the music of his ancestors more popular among younger generations.

The festival will run until the 11th of October at the Concert Hall.