Interview with Kanon Wakeshima

After a morning autograph session, JaME caught up with Kanon Wakeshima during the popular three-day annual convention Sakura-Con. Kanon wore a pink teddy-bear print dress over a black blouse and black mini top-hat--quite a difference from her all white outfit from the previous night. Elegant and poised, she answered our questions with a smile.


Welcome to Seattle. Many fans are excited to see you here in the US. Can you start by introducing yourself?

Kanon Wakeshima: Hello, I’m Kanon Wakeshima. I’ve played the cello since I was three years old.

Last night, during some of the songs, you waved your cello bow, extending it out over the audience. Is that something you usually do?

Kanon Wakeshima: (laughs) I can’t do that if the area is small but because it was such a large area, I started doing that to help fit the mood.

During your debut, how was working with Mana as your producer?

Kanon Wakeshima: He helped produce my music during my debut. I find that he has a very clear view of the world and his work; he always tries to explore the limits.

It’s been awhile since you have released a single or album aside from kanon x kanon work, the last being Koi no doutei. Are you currently working on any material?

Kanon Wakeshima: I have no plans for a new release as of now but I have been working on a lot of new songs, so I’d like to bring those to everyone.

Including some of the new songs played last night?

Kanon Wakeshima: Yes, including those.

When you originally auditioned for Sony back in 2008, you intended to only sing, correct? What made you change your mind to an instrument you’ve dedicated yourself to?

Kanon Wakeshima: I played the cello a lot when I was younger. I couldn’t really play any other instruments, so the songs that I wrote for the audition was an original piece. But since I couldn’t really the piano, I went with the cello.

Why did you choose to name your cellos? Perhaps, is each cello an extension of yourself?

Kanon Wakeshima: I think of the instruments as additional performers who play with me. I want the audience to think of them as well, which is why I named each of them.

What makes Nanachie-san hard to play? Is it her personality, or something else?

Kanon Wakeshima: (laughs) Actually she is the actually the easiest to play, as it is with the coloured. But I’ve played on Yaeharu-san the longest, since middle school.

When practicing on Yaeharu-san, what exercises do you play to warm-up?

Kanon Wakeshima: I don’t play anything in particular but songs that I like.

Baby The Stars Shine Bright and the sub-brand, Alice and the Pirates are two of your favourite brands, correct? Do you have a favourite print or dress from either brand?

Kanon Wakeshima: My favourite would probably be the dress that was designed, based on my name.

Last night, someone yelled out actually yelled out, “merci beaucoup!” during the performance. Have you studied French before; are you able to say a few words for us?

Kanon Wakeshima: (laughs) Ehhh, wow! Well, I haven’t specifically taken French lessons but I have taken English conversation classes. I don’t speak it well; I only know a few phrases. (laughs)

Finally, a message to your fans.

Kanon Wakeshima: Thank you very much for your support. I hope to come to America again, so be sure to come to see me again! Thank you!