Vocals
Erina Kato (加藤 恵理奈) is a renowned 民謡 (traditional folk music) singer and Tsugaru shamisen player from Obihiro, Hokkaido. She began learning folk songs around age three and started shamisen lessons from her father at ten, quickly distinguishing herself in competitions. By 2010, she had already claimed top honors: first place in the Hokkaido folk song category at the Dōshin Cup and received the prestigious “Meijin” title at the national Ishikari River Nagarebushi contest.
She has since collected multiple grand prix awards, including the All Japan New Folk Festival, solidifying her reputation. Now head of the Kato-ryu Shamisen School she oversees her father’s legacy, dedicating herself to teaching and performing across Japan . Her voice transcends genre boundaries, painting vivid aural landscapes of the Tokachi region, her native setting. Actively sought for concerts, radio and media appearances, she produces shows themed “Songs that resonate in the heart,” earning acclaim at festivals, schools, and municipal events . She is also part of the ensemble Ezo’n, combining shamisen, vocals, and traditional percussion, and has released albums like Utahime under Ezo’n Music
