Music
Station:
NHK World (JP)
Status:
Running
Start:
2024-03-29
Rating:
0/10 from 0 users
All you need is a small desk and musical instruments. NHK is launching a Japanese version of the worldwide phenomenon "tiny desk concerts," originally pioneered by American public broadcaster NPR. Set in the actual offices of NHK, the series will breathe new life into music as artists perform in a setting that is anything but ordinary.
There is no Next Episode of tiny desk concerts JAPAN planned.
S2026E1 - Horigome Yasuyuki
Horigome Yasuyuki , formerly of the acclaimed band KIRINJI, appears on tiny desk concerts JAPAN
Joined by guest vocalist Toki Asako, he performs Aliens, a timeless masterpiece in J-POP history. Featuring a pedal steel guitar, this tiny desk original band arrangement beautifully enhances the lyrical richness and depth of his music.
In the intimate setting of the NHK office, the meticulous ensemble and the duo's harmonizing vocals shed new light on the classic track's enduring appeal. Enjoy this exclusive 30-minute session, available only here.
Air Date: 24 Jan 2026 21:00 (CDT)
S2026E2 - CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN
One of Tokyo's most talked-about emerging trios,
CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN, comes to tiny desk.
Drawing inspiration from traditional music around the world, the group blends global folk elements with electronics and contemporary beats. Their sound captures the spirit of different places and cultures, reshaping them into vibrant, border-crossing pop.
This special edition, tiny desk concerts JAPAN in schools, takes place at the trending "Geidai Room" of the Tokyo University of the Arts. Students and members of the local community gather for an intimate concert experience—bringing the tiny desk spirit into a uniquely Japanese setting.
The performance also features special guest artists:
Tabla virtuoso U-zhaan,
Ghanaian percussionist Nii Tete Boye,
and singer from Amami Ōshima, Hajime Chitose.
From the rhythms of India and the energy of Africa to the island songs of Amami Ōshima, diverse musical traditions converge in one unforgettable concert.
The room may be classroom-sized, but the sound is world-class.
Join CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN on a special musical journey at tiny desk.
SET LIST
Gandhara feat. U-zhaan
Watatsumi
Cuba
Haiyā
tradition feat. Nii Tete Boye
Rokucho (Chichibu) feat. Hajime Chitose, Makioka Nami and Kaito
Air Date: 21 Feb 2026 21:00 (CDT)
S2026E3 - Kajiura Yuki
Kajiura Yuki, the composer whose music has captivated audiences around the world. Iconic songs that have defined some of the most beloved anime series are reborn in the intimate setting of tiny desk. Joining Kajiura's expansive and cinematic musical world are LiSA, YUUKA, and the vocalists of FictionJunction projects.
The special guest is LiSA.
She performs Homura, the theme song from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba-The Movie: Mugen Train, in a special arrangement featuring only Kajiura on piano. In the uniquely intimate space of tiny desk, the two performers stand closer than ever before. Within this rare sense of proximity, Homura rises quietly with a warmth never heard before.
Also appearing is YUUKA, performing Akatsuki no Kuruma, the beloved insert song from MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM SEED. In addition, vocalists who have long shaped Kajiura's signature sound—KAORI, YURIKO KAIDA, Joelle, LINO LEIA, and EMIKO—gather as part of FictionJunction.
The performance also features Sokyu no Fanfare, the 10th-anniversary song for Sword Art Online, Allelujah, the theme from The Garden of Sinners: Future Gospel, and the FictionJunction classic Parade.
From Demon Slayer and Gundam to Sword Art Online and The Garden of Sinners, these iconic songs that have captivated fans worldwide come together in one extraordinary performance—brought to life in the uniquely intimate atmosphere of tiny desk.
Air Date: 28 Mar 2026 22:00 (CDT)