There is magic in this musical trio. Seriously funny!
Formed in Kyoto in 2002 by Tomoharu Tomaru (accordion), Uekko (guitar), and Yusuke (cello), Zahatorte has become one of WMDF’s most-requested return acts. Their rare combination of humour and virtuosity feels at once fresh and nostalgic, drawing freely from European folk traditions, café music, musette, Irish melodies, gypsy swing, bossa nova, classical music, and beyond.
With more than 100 performances each year and well over 1,500 concerts throughout their career, Zahatorte has built a devoted following through performances filled with warmth, humour, visual playfulness, and quiet virtuosity. Whether appearing in cafés, concert halls, art museums, festivals, or tiny former bathhouse cafés in Kyoto, they have a remarkable ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
At WMDF, they are already veterans of several memorable appearances, including one legendary performance that beat a typhoon. This year, whether under clear skies or otherwise, Hakodate once again welcomes back one of the festival’s most steadfast musical companions.