Michiko Minakata

I’m Michiko Minakata, a Japanese composer, arranger, and pianist. I studied piano at Toho Gakuen School of Music and also completed advanced orchestration coursework at Berklee Online, which strengthened my skills in writing for full orchestra. I compose for many types of media, including TV commercials, TV programs, radio dramas, commercial facilities, and podcasts—creating music that fits each story and atmosphere.

Since 2016, I’ve led the ensemble project SPAPE-, and in 2024 I released my 11-piece collection Music Inspired by Fascinating Stories, selected for ANA’s international in-flight audio program. In 2026, three films from my suite Ears on Nature received an Honorable Mention at VÍANATUR International Environmental Film Festival in Spain. I’m proud to work with clients such as NHK, Kodansha, Toyota Tokyo Corolla, Nescafé, Nichirei, and Spotify.