Power of Performance

Power of Performance is a series from NOWNESS that profiles some of Asia’s most interesting and unique musicians. In this episode, we explored the work and life of Kanho Yakushiji – a monk musician – whose work combines mantras from Buddhism as well as soulful guitar melodies to express his love for both worlds. We filmed Yakushiji at a time when he was facing the dilemma of whether he should carry on the legacy of his family temple, or dedicate his life to music. The answer to his quandary is explored in a 5-chapter short film that visually narrates the emergence of a new identity.