One of Konami's first composers, Miki Higashino (sometimes credited as Miki-Chang) was initially a part-time composer, but soon became an integral of their team. Her music came to prominence for the lively melodic score to the hit Arcade shooter Gradius. She developed her musicianship on subsequent efforts such as Yie Ar Kung Fu, Knightmare, Salamander, Gradius III, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Surprise Attack, and games for the Picmo Learning System.