Haruna Higashida is a modern-day Gagaku, a professional of the ancient Japanese arts of court music and dance. A virtuoso of the Shō (mouth-organ) and the Biwa (lute), she also excels in the Umai, the elegant dance of the courtly right. 


From a young age, Haruna's musical voyage was marked by a diverse background, including choir singing and playing wind instruments like the Alto Saxophone and Clarinet. Her pivotal encounter with the Shō during high school unveiled the captivating realm of its haunting melodies, steering her towards the specialty of Gagaku. She then went on to graduate from the Tokyo University of the Arts, specializing in Traditional Japanese Music.
 
Beyond her mastery in classical Gagaku, Haruna has ventured into collaborative territories, merging the profound traditions of East with the innovative expressions of the West. This blend has not only enriched her musical palette but also expanded the boundaries of traditional Japanese music.
 
Currently, Haruna is passionately engaged in outreach with Japan's youth, introducing them to the enchanting world of Gagaku. Her work illuminates the timeless beauty of this art form, fostering a new generation's appreciation for traditional Japanese culture.