About Hyoshi in Counterpoint
Who are we?
Hyoshi in Counterpoint is a dynamic, all-female Asian-fusion ensemble based in South Australia. The group brings together community-minded guzheng virtuoso Zhao Liang, theatre music specialist and powerhouse vocalist Jennifer Trijo (keyboards and vocals), internationally acclaimed shamisen performer Noriko Tadano, and highly regarded string players Karen De Nardi (violin and viola) and Monica Myung (cello), under the artistic direction of percussionist Satomi Ohnishi. (Photo: Kyam Ross)
How did we start?
Each of us is rooted in diverse musical traditions, and together we have forged a distinctive artistic synergy through performances and workshops, including the Nexus Arts Orchestra/Interplay Program and the Contemporary Asian Australian Performance (CAAP) Artist Lab. We first came together in 2022 to perform our own compositions in response to an art exhibition at OzAsia Festival. Although it was originally meant to be a one-off project, more opportunities to perform soon followed. (Photo: Lester Wong)
What is "Hyoshi"?
In Japanese, “Hyoshi” (拍子) means time, tempo, and the moment when everything aligns. For us, it’s about rhythm, opportunity, and the spark when music just clicks. “Counterpoint” is the creative interplay of distinct musical lines. Our name, “Hyoshi in Counterpoint,” captures the harmony, intuition, and unique musical moments that arise when our diverse voices come together.
(Photo: Ange Costes, BrisAsia Festival 2026)