tap/click for
profileMaico Miyamoto is definitely a panist who is being counted among the ‘First-of-Firsts’ in Steelpan history, relative to Pan Ramajay, an initiative conceived, developed and produced – in 1989 by Exodus Steel Orchestra of Trinidad & Tobago. Maico has become the first Japanese panist to ever compete in the Pan Ramajay, and made it to the finals of the June 27, 2020 competition in the ‘Soloist’ category. Maico’s love for music began at a young age, and led her to the piano, marimba and chorus.
Later on, four years at SENZOKU music college led to her mastering the marimba. And it was at that time Maico says, “I encountered steelpan at this time.” Since her graduation from college, Maico has been to Trinidad and performed in Panorama 2013 and 2014. Both years she played with birdsong Steel Orchestra under arranger Andy Narell, while also benefiting from the tutelage of the late Ken “Professor” Philmore with Fonclaire Steel Orchestra in 2013, and playing the arrangement of Liam Teague in Silver Stars in 2014.
Fast forward to present day in Japan, and Maico plays in Pan Note Magic and Panorama Steel Orchestra and in various configurations. She is also active as a solo artist; hence her entry into and very successful participation in, that category of Pan Ramajay 2020.
Maico Miyamoto
