Kansai Music Conference

Building Bridges With Music

The 16th Kansai Music Conference (KMC 2025) took place for six months, from April to October 2025, in conjunction with Expo 2025. During this time artists from 6 continents performed on public stages, schools and live music venues in Osaka and Kobe.

Oct. 3: "KMC Entertainment Expo at schools in Osaka

Artists from around the world introduce their talent and culture to elementary school kids in Osaka through presentations and live music.

Elsten Torres
(US)

Manel Ferreira
(Portugal)

Pete Kronowitt
(US)

Maaya
(Osaka)

BanyakBunyikRepublik
(Malaysia)

Oct. 3: Live music and networking opportunities in Osaka at Studio 246 Juso

18:30
Aoi Maeda
(Kyoto)

19:15
Altoduo
(Singapore)

20:00
TENYU
(Tokyo)

20:45
Machinne
(Colombia/Spain)

Oct. 4: Conference sessions at KOKO Plaza

English Rakugo
13:00-13:45 @ Tatami Room 702

Enjoy a short Japanese comic story told in English by Showto. Also a brief workshop where audience members can join in.

Shamisen Workshop
14:15-15:05 @ Tatami Room 702

Instructors from Wakanagi provide a chance to learn how to play the traditional Japanese instrument, Shamisen. Even beginners can learn how to play a simple song!

Japan's Indie Live Music Scene
16:00-17:00 @ Conference Room 405

Panelists talk about the current state of Japan's live music scene for indie musicians. With a focus on jazz, blues, rock, and acoustic, the discussion covers the areas of effective promotion, appropriate venues, audience turnout, and expected income.

Networking session
17:10-18:00 @ Conference Room 405

Attendees are invited to meet with industry reps, panelists, venue managers, agents, and other musicians to exchange business cards and make connections. Special invited guests include: Instituto italiano di Cultura di Osaka, CFlat foreign language cafe, TOKKOU Fashion, Studio 246 Kobe, Moorworks, photographers, local musicians and others.