Ko Tanaka

I specialize in authentic Japanese music—from anime and video game soundtracks to traditional styles and modern film scores such as the Studio Ghibli sound. I can also teach you how to create J-pop songs across different eras (80s, 90s, 00s, 10s, and 20s), how to write lyrics in Japanese, and how to deeply understand Japanese modern culture, including anime and manga. My lessons are designed to expand your knowledge of both Japanese culture and music while giving you the tools to express yourself creatively.

I’m a Japanese composer based in New York City. I graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston and from HAL Music School in Nagoya, Japan. Born and raised in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, I spent over 15 years working in the Japanese entertainment industry.

My background covers a wide range of music and storytelling. I have composed and arranged for Japanese games, anime, idols, pachinko machines, television, and live events. I also write and analyze stories for theatrical works, often studying the structure of Japanese anime and manga to connect music with narrative.

For the past five years, I’ve been teaching students around the world—from beginners to professionals. Many continue lessons with me because I explain concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. I’ve also taught masterclasses on digital orchestration at IMSTA FESTA, one of the largest international music software events.

My work now spans both Japan and the U.S. I composed the Off-Broadway musical Poupelle of Chimney Town, based on a bestselling Japanese picture book, which premiered at Signature Theater in NYC in 2024. My musical Shinigami, inspired by Japanese Rakugo, won the All About Musical Theater Creative Award. In addition, I collaborate with Broadway and regional productions as an associate keyboard programmer with Strange Cranium, a Grammy-winning company. 

I believe a good teacher should offer two types of education: one that you can apply right away, and another that takes time to absorb but stays with you for the rest of your life. In every session, I combine both. This way, you can feel real progress immediately after the lesson while also gaining meaningful insights that continue to shape your growth over time.

I’m also skilled at interpreting what’s happening in music and turning it into words. Many of my students enjoy the metaphors and explanations I use, and some have told me that simply listening to my way of explaining music is enjoyable in itself.

In my lessons, I start by listening to your deepest interests as well as the challenges you may be facing. From there, I provide examples that go even deeper—helping you expand both your knowledge and your ability to express yourself.