Ichiko Aoba Enchants Los Angeles @ The Walt Disney Concert Hall

The multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Ichiko Aoba captivated the audience with her angelic voice.

Article Contributed by Monica Soriano

On Friday April 24, 2026 Japanese singer Ichiko Aoba presented herself accompanied by string orchestra group 12 Ensemble and composer Taro Umebayashi to an audience at The Walt Disney Concert Hall. We were in attendance at this performance. While arriving we were greeted with friendly staff that was accommodating and easily guided us to find our seat. The Disney Concert Hall is utterly beautiful with 360° seating that expands vertically. As seats were filling up, it was announced that no photography or videography would be allowed during the presentation. It became clear later on why this was important.

A Quiet & Mesmerized Audience 

The lights dimmed and Ichiko Aoba made her entrance. She had a shiny long silver dress with poet style sleeves that beautifully stood out in the dark room. Without saying a word she picked up her acoustic guitar and began her set. From the very first song, the audience was silent, captivated and fully submerged in her voice. After a couple songs she was joined by 12 Ensemble members and Taro Umebayashi. She introduced herself and continued the show.

Her music is a blend of folk, classical and ambient among others that truly resonates with audiences. It was almost completely silent in the room but with applause at the end of each song. Many artists would normally want their fans to be loud and lively but during an interview with Derrick Gee she stated that many audience members in fact fall asleep at her shows; she seemed rather welcoming to the idea that her voice allows people to doze off. This experience made perfect sense why no videos or photos were allowed, this show was whimsical and very peaceful. The set design and lighting accompanied the songs in alignment, often switching colors, producing smoke or creating a stunning atmosphere of flashing lights that filled the entire room. 

A True Multi-Instrumentalist and Vocalist

Throughout the show Ichiko switched between acoustic guitar, electric guitar and an electric piano synthesizer. Her ability to create a space that seems far away from the city is admirable. She performed for just under 2 hours and our favorite songs included “FLAG”, “Hagupit”, “惑星の泪” (Wakusei No Namida) and of course “Asleep Among Endives.”

At the end she thanked Taro Umebayashi and the 12 Ensemble members individually. While she sat for the entirety of her show, the very last song she performed standing. After everyone exited the stage, there was a hope and voices encouraging an encore. It wasn’t long before Ichiko Aoba joyfully skipped back to the stage and performed 2 more songs, one being a gorgeous french version of “Seabed Eden.” She thanked everyone else including lighting and both U.S. and Japanese Staff, bowed alongside the performers onstage and waved goodbye with a smile.

We’re Just Glad To Have Experienced This Tour

Overall, sitting in and soaking Ichiko Aoba’s talent was a wonderful and unique experience. 12 Ensemble was a great choice to accompany her, hearing each and every instrument live and form a mesmerizing performance is unforgettable. The Walt Disney Concert Hall was a perfect choice for this specific show and provided a beautiful sound. Ichiko Aoba is continuing her North American tour and we are glad to have witnessed her talent live. We will be keeping up with her and her future shows/music.