Inspired by his grandfather, Masakatsu started to learn Tsugaru Shamisen (three-stringed traditional Japanese musical instrument) and has been composing since he was in his tens. He won many awards in Shamisen competitions, and has played on TV and radio programs; some of his songs appeared in commercials, dramas, and
theatres.
Besides in Japan, Masakatsu has also performed in America, Spain, Netherlands, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, Russia, Mongolia, Malawi, Kenya, etc. He was the first Japanese holding a solo recital at the world-famous Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory, and has been invited to perform at Japan Expo Thailand for three years in a row.
While accompanying traditional folk songs as a shamisen player, Masakatsu’s music genres also include rock, jazz, classical and Latin. He has earned great admiration not only in session playing, but also composing and album producing.