Experiencing a Concert Without a Performer on Stage

Hatsune Miku concert review: Experiencing a virtual idol live

By Madhurima Haque | 2 hours ago

Sydney experienced a wave of curious fans on Wednesday, with many donning blue wigs and clutching leeks, all heading to the ICC in Darling Harbour. What brought nearly 9,000 people together? An empty stage. Rather than a traditional concert with a visible performer, attendees focused intently on the screen behind the stage featuring the virtual icon – Hatsune Miku.

Miku, however, is not a live performer in the traditional sense. She’s a digital creation from Japanese company Crypton Future Media, designed to represent their innovative singing voice synthesizer software. This allows anyone to compose their own songs, making her the voice for enthusiasts’ creativity. The potential for Miku’s music is boundless, as creators input their unique styles and genres, sharing their works that sometimes catch Miku’s virtual tour spotlight, including performances at high-profile events like Coachella and collaborations with artists such as Pharrell Williams.

At the concert, a live band comprising real musicians provided the backbone for Miku’s performance, energetically playing for almost two hours. Their skill didn’t go unnoticed by the audience, creating a palpable atmosphere of appreciation. Elaine, a 64-year-old who traveled two hours with her granddaughter, praised the musicians, calling them “excellent.” Jude, an 18-year-old casual fan, reflected on the audience’s recognition of the band’s contribution, noting that it added a depth to the event, emphasizing the power of music over the illusion of Miku’s character.

The venue buzzed with vibrant light sticks, shifting colors to represent the various characters and duets performed throughout the night. Fans passionately sang along to beloved tracks like Miku, The Vampire, and Luka Luka★Night Fever, all while the crowd exploded with enthusiasm. The experience showcased Miku as a cultural phenomenon that transcends traditional artistry.

Many attendees expressed personal interpretations of Miku, especially in terms of fashion. Costume creativity was evident, with fans adding a touch of local flair, including Bunnings uniforms that humorously complemented their blue wigs. Conversations among attendees sparked effortlessly, building a sense of community rooted in shared interests.

This gathering was not just a one-time event; it is part of a larger trend reflecting a growing fascination with Asian pop culture. Over recent years, there’s been a notable rise in the popularity of Asian pop music in Australia, evident through a reported 600 percent increase in related concerts and a significant uptick in artists touring the region. Interestingly, a vast majority of Asian pop enthusiasts express a preference for music in foreign languages, valuing cultural understanding over linguistic familiarity.

Miku’s global success exemplifies this cultural shift and connection. It was a momentous occasion as she embarked on her inaugural tour across Australia and New Zealand, drawing a diverse fanbase. Aunchita, a 19-year-old fan, captured the essence of the concert, stating that seeing Miku in a live setting felt as if the digital world had merged with reality.

This concert was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of how a digital figure can galvanize a community, proving that whether real or virtual, the essence of music and connection reigns supreme.