Agenda

12 Mar 2026 09:00

Soundscapes of Japan: Popular Music in Global Circulation

Sala delle Trifore - San Sebastiano, Dorsoduro 1686, Venice

Soundscapes of Japan: Popular Music in Global Circulation
Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 12-13 March 2026

Japanese popular music is often viewed as a domestic or East Asian phenomenon, yet its global reach has steadily expanded since the late 20th century. With the rise of digital media, Japanese music now circulates internationally through diverse and sometimes unpredictable channels—foreign-language covers, fan labor, otaku culture, and online platforms. These transnational flows reflect not only technological shifts but also cultural and political contexts that shape how music travels and is received. Despite its global diffusion, Japanese music continues to express national identity and cultural specificity. Whether through idol aesthetics, anime soundtracks, or genre innovations, it retains distinct markers that resonate with international audiences while remaining rooted in local traditions. This duality invites deeper inquiry into how music functions as both a cultural export and a site of identity negotiation. This conference presents case studies of Japanese popular music artists across genres, exploring how they navigate global markets, engage with foreign audiences, and maintain cultural authenticity. The papers examine the roles of technology, fandom, translation, and genre in shaping music’s transnational movement. They also consider how fans abroad interpret and recontextualize Japanese music within their own cultural frameworks. Together, these studies offer a nuanced understanding of Japanese popular music as a dynamic cultural form—one that moves fluidly across borders while continuing to reflect its origins. The conference foregrounds the complex interplay between globalization and cultural expression in the evolving soundscape of Japanese music.

The detailed programme is attached.

The conference will be streamed on Zoom. Please register at this link

Organizzatore

Department of Asian and North African Studies

Allegati

Poster - Programme 775 KB

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