A GROUNDBREAKING MUSICAL COLLABORATION UNFOLDS AT KANEKO
Andy Akiho & Sandbox Percussion: A New Work
Wednesday, October 15
KANEKO proudly presents an extraordinary artistic residency as GRAMMY-nominated composer Andy Akiho and the internationally acclaimed Sandbox Percussion return to Omaha in October 2025 to debut new material in current development for percussion quartet and steelpan.
Building on the success of their GRAMMY-nominated and Pulitzer Prize-finalist work Seven Pillars – which has captivated audiences across 40+ performances worldwide from Paris to Beijing – this new collaboration pushes the boundaries of contemporary chamber music even further. Drawing on the creative energy that produced his GRAMMY-nominated Sculptures at Jun Kaneko Studios in 2023, Akiho returns to KANEKO as composer and performer, presenting alongside Sandbox Percussion a public preview of their work-in-progress.
First Look at a New Musical Creation
Following their intensive May 2025 creative residency at KANEKO, Andy Akiho and Sandbox Percussion will continue to develop material from their composition – giving Omaha audiences the first glimpse of this groundbreaking work brought to life at KANEKO. This special performance offers an exclusive opportunity to witness their collaborative process and experience how KANEKO’s unique creative environment has shaped this evolving piece.
The program will also feature community engagement elements, with workshops and educational opportunities currently in development to deepen the artistic experience for Omaha audiences.
Beyond the Residency: A Global Vision
This KANEKO residency represents a crucial phase of the ambitious multi-year project. The completed work will feature cutting-edge visual and staging elements developed with director Michael McQuilken, culminating in a 2026 world premiere followed by an international tour.
About the Artists
Andy Akiho is a GRAMMY-nominated composer and performer whose innovative works blend classical, jazz, and world music traditions. His steelpan artistry and compositional voice have earned international recognition and prestigious awards.
Learn more about Andy Akiho here
Sandbox Percussion has redefined contemporary chamber music since 2011, earning GRAMMY nominations and Pulitzer Prize recognition. Their fearless approach to percussion performance has captivated audiences at venues including Baryshnikov Arts Center, Theatre du Châtelet, and the Beijing Music Festival.
Learn more about Sandbox Percussion
here
About KANEKO: The KANEKO mission is to initiate, explore, support and promote creativity by providing opportunities to think differently, to develop innovative ideas and projects, and to share the creative process with others. Established by internationally renowned sculptor Jun Kaneko and wife Ree Kaneko, KANEKO is conceived as an “open space for your mind” – a place where thoughtful examination of others’ ideas through exhibitions, programs, and workshops facilitate a vital and evolving community.
