MOONRISE Brings Japanese Artists to New York
Ryota Kikuchi (piano) and MAOSHO (piano, trumpet, and Tsugaru shamisen) to perform at Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center on September 19, 2026
MOONRISE Japan Artists – Ryota Kikuchi: Piano
Saturday, September 19 at 1:30 p.m.
MOONRISE Japan Artists – MAOSHO: Jazz & Shamisen
Saturday, September 19 at 7:00 p.m.
Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center – 129 W. 67th Street
Admission: $35 Prime | $25 General | $20 Seniors & Students
Disclosure: The author is providing public relations services for MOON and Mar Creation in support of the MOONRISE concert series and received compensation for this work. The event information presented here is based on materials provided by the organizers.
MOONRISE, an international artist development initiative dedicated to introducing Japanese artists to audiences in the United States and beyond, will present two performances at Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The concerts will feature the innovative musical duo MAOSHO and acclaimed pianist Ryota Kikuchi, bringing contemporary and traditional Japanese artistry to one of New York City’s premier concert venues.
Presented by Moon and Mar Creation, the performances reflect MOONRISE’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for Japanese artists to engage with international audiences through live performance, cultural exchange, and artistic collaboration.
“MOONRISE exists to help Japanese artists reach the world—not simply by performing overseas, but by building meaningful cultural connections through music,” says Akie Osawa, producer of MOON. “We believe every performance is an opportunity to share Japan’s creativity, inspire dialogue, and create lasting relationships between artists and audiences.”
MOONRISE Japan Artists –Ryota Kikuchi: Piano
A pianist, composer, arranger, and YouTube creator, Ryota Kikuchi began playing the piano at the age of four. While still a student at Nihon University’s College of Art and Graduate School, Kikuchi composed music for various artists, and since he has worked on numerous TV programs, film scores, as well as anime and video game music. He gained attention for composing the music for the web commercial of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In November 2024, he became the first Japanese soloist to successfully perform all four of Gershwin’s concerto works in a single evening. His YouTube channel has more than 850,000 subscribers, and the total number of views has exceeded 400 million. Kikuchi’s unique style, built on the solid technical foundation cultivated through classical music, combined with outstanding improvisational and arrangement skills, allows him to perform across various genres, earning him high praise as a one-of-a-kind pianist. Learn more at his website.
“I’ve been fortunate to connect with people around the world through YouTube, and I’m excited to finally meet many of those listeners in person through live performance,” says Kikuchi. “I hope this concert will be a special opportunity to share music together and create unforgettable memories.”
PROGRAM
George Gershwin – “Rhapsody in Blue”
Ryuichi Sakamoto – “Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence”
Akira Ikufube – “Bon Odori”
Movie Music Medley
To purchase, please visit Kaufman Music Center’s website. As a special benefit, JapanCulture•NYC members will receive a promotional code for discounted tickets by email. If you'd like to learn more about membership, please visit our Membership page.
MOONRISE Japan Artists – MAOSHO: Jazz & Shamisen
Mao Sone is a jazz artist who masterfully performs on both piano and trumpet. Sho Asano is one of Japan’s leading shamisen performers and folk singers.
Traditional Japanese music and jazz come together in a bold and unique collaboration with MAOSHO. The powerful sound of Tsugaru shamisen, the spirit of Japanese folk song, and the freedom of jazz improvisation create an energetic and emotional performance. The duo received a standing ovation in 2025, when they first performed a series of concerts in New York City.
“Our music is a conversation between tradition and innovation,” says MAOSHO. “We hope audiences in New York will experience not only the sound of Japan, but also the universal joy of creating something new together.”
Joining MAOSHO on the Merkin Hall stage will be guest artist Keita Ogawa, one of the most versatile and sought-after percussionists in New York City.
PROGRAM
Mao Sone – “Sakura Sakura Fantasy”
Mao Sone – “HAYASHI”
Richard Rodgers – “My Favorite Things” (arr. Sho Asano)
Japanese Folk Song – “Yagibushi” (arr. Mao Sone)
To purchase tickets, please visit Kaufman Music Center’s website. As a special benefit, JapanCulture•NYC members will receive a promotional code for discounted tickets by email. If you'd like to learn more about membership, please visit our Membership page.
About Mao Sone
A native of Chiba Prefecture, Mao Sone was born into a musical family: His paternal grandmother was a Shamisen player, and his maternal grandmother was a former jazz cafe owner. After studying classical piano from a young age, Sone added trumpet at age eight. He made his professional debut in his senior year of high school, performing alongside Norio Maeda and Takeshi Inomata. He attended Berklee College of Music on a full-tuition scholarship, and after graduating at the top of his class in 2014, he became a member of the inaugural class of the Berklee Global Jazz Institute’s master’s program, completing his degree with the highest honors (Summa Cum Laude) in 2016.
Mao Sone is a rare and versatile multi-instrumentalist who has garnered international acclaim as a "Jazz Dual-Threat"—a virtuoso on both the trumpet and the piano. An accomplished performer, composer, and producer, he has established a unique presence in the global music scene through his innovative blend of tradition and modernity. Visit Sone’s website to learn more.
About Sho Asano
Influenced by his grandfather, Sho Asano began learning wadaiko, traditional Japanese drums, at age three and the Tsugaru shamisen at age five. Throughout his childhood, he regularly won shamisen competitions, breaking records as the youngest winner in various categories. In 2004, at the age of 14, Asano became the youngest winner of the highest tier of the Tsugaru-jamisen National Competition (now known as the Tsugaru-jamison World Competition). He released his debut album, Shofu, at age 17 and has performed extensively overseas, including a concert at the Kennedy Center.
Incorporating elements of Japanese folk songs, classical music, rock, jazz, pop, and flamenco, Asano’s performance style transcends genres. He has worked with a wide range of artists, collaborating with world-class musicians such as jazz legend Will Lee (bass), rising jazz star Marcus Gilmore (drums), and two-time Grammy Award winner Richard Stoltzman (clarinet). Hear Asano’s music on his YouTube channel.
About Keita Ogawa
New York-based drummer and percussionist Keita Ogawa is a prodigious talent, playing practically any percussion instrument with fluency and musicality. The three-time Grammy winner studied at Berklee College of Music, and he spent three months in Rio de Janeiro, immersing himself in learning Brazilian percussion from some of the country’s most respected musicians. His passion for crossing musical borders and cultures shows in his impressive list of collaborators since moving to the U.S.: Yo-Yo Ma, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra, and Charlie Hunter, Snarky Puppy, and Bokanté, among many others.
New York City is the final stop of a series of events for the MOONRISE project. Together, the performances of MAOSHO and Ryota Kikuchi showcase the diversity and vitality of contemporary Japanese music, offering New York audiences an opportunity to experience distinctive artistic voices that bridge tradition, innovation, and global cultural dialogue.
About Merkin Hall
Located within Kaufman Music Center on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Merkin Hall is one of New York City’s leading venues for classical, contemporary, jazz, and cross-cultural performance. Known for its exceptional acoustics and intimate setting, the hall has presented internationally acclaimed artists and emerging voices from around the world, serving as a vibrant home for musical innovation and artistic excellence.
About MOON
Moon, Inc. specializes in concert production and artist management, organizing numerous performances annually. The company is led by representative director and producer Akie Osawa, who has a proven track record in discovering and nurturing young talent, such as violinists Ai Okumura and Rina Matsuda, pianist Aya Nagatomi, and bandoneon player Kazuma Miura. Osawa established Moon in 2020 and continues to support artists’ global development and cross-cultural collaborations with the focus of presenting Japanese performers on the world stage. Learn more at Moon’s website.
About MOONRISE
Launched by Moon in 2025, MOONRISE is an international artist development and cultural exchange initiative that supports Japanese artists in expanding their presence beyond Japan through performances, audience engagement, and artistic opportunities abroad. As part of Moon’s “Global Expansion Project for Performing Artists,” MOONRISE is centered around music, collaborating across diverse fields such as food, traditional culture, fashion, film, and technology, showcasing the beauty and talent of Japan through the collective strength of “All Japan.” The full vision of MOONRISE is not “from Japan to the world,” but “making Japan shine within the world.” By fostering connections between artists and international audiences, MOONRISE seeks to deepen cultural understanding and create new pathways for creative exchange.
About Mar Creation
Established in 2003, Mar Creation, Inc is a full-service resource for creative needs ranging from video and music production, graphic and web design, event planning and booking, PR, artist management, and film distribution. The organization has been involved with and supports various charitable events for AIDS, Japan earthquake/tsunami relief, and peace-making projects.
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Shunzo Ohno's Album Release Celebration at Joe's Pub
Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and composer Shunzo Ohno returns to Joe’s Pub for an unforgettable evening of vibrant, genre-bending jazz to celebrate the release of Ohno’s new album, Shunzo Ohno Live at Joe’s Pub, a culmination of his myriad performances at the iconic venue.
Photo credit: Cristabelle Tan
Shunzo Ohno: Beyond Imagination
Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Joe’s Pub at The Public Theater, 425 Lafayette Street (at Astor Place)
Admission: $48
Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and composer Shunzo Ohno returns to Joe’s Pub for an unforgettable evening of vibrant, genre-bending jazz. A longtime force on the New York scene, Ohno has performed alongside legends including Art Blakey, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Gil Evans, among others. The evening will celebrate the release of Ohno’s new album, Shunzo Ohno Live at Joe’s Pub, a culmination of his myriad performances at the iconic venue.
Featured Performers
Cyro Baptista – Percussion
Clifford Carter – Keys/piano
Quintin Zoto – Guitar
Zé Luis – Sax/flute
Alex Yoo – Drums
Leo Traversa – Bass
Join Ohno and his band for a one-night-only, electrifying live musical experience.
There is a two-drink or one-food minimum per person. To purchase tickets, please visit Joe’s Pub’s website.
Shunzo Ohno. Photo credit: Cristabelle Tan
“Each note, each phrase, invites listeners into a world where artistry and human resilience convey, where the past and present meet in a harmonious arc. Live at Joe’s Pub is proof that music, crafted with mastery and courage and heart, can speak universally, offering a vision of hope and beauty that has a place everywhere in the world.”
About Shunzo Ohno
Born in Gifu, Japan, Shunzo Ohno began playing trumpet at age 13 and by 19 was already Japan’s leading jazz trumpeter. His career took flight under the mentorship of legendary bandleader Art Blakey, leading to collaborations with jazz greats including Gil Evans, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Machito’s Afro-Cuban Orchestra. He is featured on Grammy Award–winning recordings with both Machito and Gil Evansand has released 17 albums as a leader and appeared on more than 30 as a sideman.
Ohno’s journey is extraordinary—not only a testament to musical mastery but to the human spirit itself. Having survived a devastating car accident in 1988 and, years later, a life-threatening battle with throat cancer, he reimagined both his technique and his artistic vision, forging a sound that is uniquely his own—one that resonates with resilience and hope. His inspiring story is captured in the filmNever Defeated: The Shunzo Ohno Story, narrated by longtime friend Buster Williams.
A recipient of numerous international awards for his contributions to the global music culture, Ohno continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his artistry, advocacy, and unwavering spirit. For the past 15 years, Ohno has made annual visits to Northern Japan, supporting communities affected by the earthquake/tsunami, demonstrating the power of music.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening with one of jazz’s most fearless innovators.
Enjoying JapanCulture•NYC? This site is supported by our community, and a $5/month membership helps offset the costs of keeping it running so we can continue spotlighting the people and events that make our community shine. Please click here to join.
Shunzo Ohno Presents “Soaring Higher” at Joe’s Pub
Internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter and composer Shunzo Ohno returns to The Public Theater’s Joe’s Pub on Tuesday, September 23 at 7:00 p.m. with the debut of his bold new project, Soaring Higher.
Soaring Higher – Shunzo Ohno in Concert
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 | 7:00 p.m. doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Joe’s Pub – 425 Lafayette Street
Admission: $40
Internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter and composer Shunzo Ohno returns to The Public Theater’s Joe’s Pub on Tuesday, September 23 at 7:00 p.m. with the debut of his bold new project, Soaring Higher. Known for his fearless artistry and transformative sound, Ohno has long been regarded as one of the most influential trumpeters of our time. With Soaring Higher, Ohno explores resilience, transformation, and joy through tender melodies, euphoric funk, and global rhythms. The evening promises an immersive journey where bold innovation meets heartfelt soul.
Ohno will be joined by an all-star ensemble: Clifford Carter (keys), Thierry Arpino (drums), Kip Sophos (bass), Quintin Zoto (guitar), SUNY Music Conservatory graduate Sasha Ono (cello), and the extraordinary Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista. Together the genre-defying dynamic powerhouse ensemble transcends categories, crafting a live experience of fearless musical exploration.
To purchase tickets, please visit The Public Theater’s website. There is a two-drink or one-food minimum per person.
Jazz visionary Shunzo Ohno. Photo by Crystabelle Tan.
About Shunzo Ohno
Born in Gifu, Japan, Shunzo Ohno began playing trumpet at age 13 and by 19 was already Japan’s leading jazz trumpeter. His career took flight under the mentorship of legendary bandleader Art Blakey, leading to collaborations with jazz greats including Gil Evans, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Machito’s Afro-Cuban Orchestra. He is featured on Grammy Award–winning recordings with both Machito and Gil Evans and has released 16 albums as a leader and appeared on more than 30 as a sideman.
Ohno’s journey is extraordinary—not only a testament to musical mastery but to the human spirit itself. Having survived a devastating car accident in 1988 and, years later, a life-threatening battle with throat cancer, he reimagined both his technique and his artistic vision, forging a sound that is uniquely his own—one that resonates with resilience and hope. His inspiring story is captured in the film Never Defeated: The Shunzo Ohno Story, narrated by long-time friend Buster Williams.
Ohno is a recipient of numerous international awards for his contributions to the global music culture. For the past 14 years, Shunzo has made annual visits to Northern Japan, supporting communities affected by the earthquake/tsunami, demonstrating the power of music.
Ohno continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his artistry, advocacy, and unwavering spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening with one of jazz’s most fearless innovators.
Support JapanCulture•NYC by becoming a member! For $5 a month, you’ll help maintain the high quality of our site while we continue to showcase and promote the activities of our vibrant community. Please click here to begin your membership today!
Japanese Jazz Pianist to Perform in NYC
Japanese jazz pianist Miho Nobuzane performs at Klavierhaus in New York City as part of the series From Tokyo to Times Square by Decibel
From Tokyo to Times Square: Miho Nobuzane
Tuesday, January 7 at 7:00 p.m.*
Klavierhaus – 790 11th Avenue (between 54th and 55th Streets)
Admission: $30 in advance | $35 at the door | $15 Students
Don’t miss an unforgettable evening with pianist Miho Nobuzane, a versatile musician whose captivating performances blend jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and dynamic improvisations. This concert is part of the Japanese jazz piano series From Tokyo to Times Square by Decibel, a nonprofit dedicated to live music, and celebrates the rich musical and cultural connections between Japan and New York.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit Decibel’s website at decibelpresents.com.
About Miho Nobuzane
Born in Osaka, Japan, Miho Nobuzane began her piano journey at the age of four. After studying classical piano, she discovered her passion for jazz and Brazilian music, which led her to New York City, where she quickly became a distinguished figure in the Brazilian jazz scene.
Nobuzane has collaborated with legendary musicians including Bernard Purdie, Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, Bakithi Kumalo, Filo Machado, Paula Lima, Nanny Assis, Lincoln Goines, and many more. She has performed at iconic venues like Blue Note NY, Iridium NY, Long Beach Jazz Festival, as well as in Brazil, Hawaii, and Japan.
Miho’s three albums — Make You Happy, Simple Words ~Jazz loves Brazil, and Anata Ni Deaeta — showcase her incredible talent as both a composer and performer.
About From Tokyo to Times Square
From Tokyo to Times Square is a unique concert series featuring top Japanese jazz pianists performing live in New York City. The series, which began in November 2024, spans seven months, with one pianist performing each month, showcasing the talent and creativity of Japan's jazz scene. Kyoko Oyobe and Yayoi Ikawa performed in November and December, respectively, and the series continues until May.
Upcoming Performances
All set times are at 7:00 p.m.*
Miki Hayama – February 4
Eri Yamamoto – March 4
Martha Kato – April 1
Rina Yamazaki – May 27
*The original post of this event stated that there is also a set at 8:30 p.m., but there is not. The only performances will be at 7:00 p.m. JapanCulture•NYC regrets the error.
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JAPANESE JAZZ TRUMPETER TO PERFORM AT JOE’S PUB
Shunzo Ohno: EVOLUTION
Friday, September 20 at 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Joe’s Pub – 425 Lafayette Street (at Astor Place)
Admission: $36
Celebrating 50 years in New York and his groundbreaking First Prize International Songwriting Competition Award for the iconic composition "Musashi," Shunzo Ohno brings Metamorphosis, the energetic ensemble and always riveting performance to Joe's Pub.
Making history as the first jazz composer to win this prestigious award and the first Japanese-born musician to achieve such recognition, Ohno’s celebration at Joe's Pub will be a multicultural experience, with his unique jazz and classical instrumentation. Hailing from Japan, Ohno made his mark in NYC over the last 50 years, touring with legendary masters Art Blakey, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Gil Evans, and more. His life story of overcoming challenges and his thrilling live performances have attracted fans of all ages.
Don't miss Grammy Award-winning artist Shunzo Ohno's fearless performance, inspiring compositions, and the Lotus Chamber Music Collective, part of his dynamic Metamorphosis Ensemble, as they return to Joe's Pub with a sonic experience evoking hope and resilience. There is a two-drink or one-food minimum per person. To purchase tickets, please visit Joe’s Pub’s website.
Featuring
Shunzo Ohno — Trumpet
Jerome Jennings — Drums
Quintin Zoto — Guitar
Noah Rott — Piano / Keys
Jeremiah Edwards — Bass
Sasha Ono — Cello
Emily Garrison — Violin
Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim — Violin
Molly Goldman — Viola
With cinematic rhythms and inspiring melodies, Ohno captivates audiences worldwide. In his pursuit of global harmony through music, Ohno declares, "We are all Dreamers, and together, we triumph."
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Akira Tana TO PERFORM AT DIZZY’S CLUB
Akira Tana’s Osaka Quartet with Atsuko Hashimoto
Thursday, August 15 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Friday, August 16 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 17 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Dizzy’s Club at Frederick P. Rose Hall – Broadway at 60th Street
Admission: $25-$50
Jazz at Lincoln Center Japanese jazz drummer Akira Tana for six performances.
One of the most versatile drummers on the scene, West Coast legend Akira Tana has performed with Sonny Rollins, Hubert Laws, Lena Horne, Rufus Reid, The Manhattan Transfer, and countless other iconic artists and acts. His of-the-moment ability to summon what the music requires in any context drives his evolving expression.
Akira Tana
For this performance, Tana brings his Osaka Quartet featuring Hammond B3 master Atsuko Hashimoto from Osaka, Japan. The quartet’s performance will include music from the classic jazz organ repertoire, originals, and adaptations of material from the Great American Songbook and Japanese pop and folk traditions.
PERFORMANCE LINEUP
Akira Tana — drums
Atsuko Hashimoto — Hammond B3
Hideki Kawamura — tenor saxophone
Yutaka Hashimoto — guitar
To purchase tickets, please visit Jazz at Lincoln Center’s website. Dizzy's Club requires a minimum food and/or beverage purchase of $21 per person. Can’t make it to the venue? Watch both sets on August 15 live at JazzLive.com.
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Asian Restaurant in NoMad Hortus NYC Introduces Jazz Nights
Under the direction of Executive Chef Geo Park, Hortus NYC in NoMad offers an Asian culinary journey with a European twist. Chef Park and Managing Partner Suhum Jang (Per Se, Daniel, Jungsik) have created a menu that seamlessly blends the flavors of China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
Hortus NYC’s Japanese offerings include Hamachi in yuzu kosho sauce with cucumber, pickled peppers, and blood orange; and Sea Urchin Donabe, which consists of ikura and cured egg yolk over a bed of nori rice served in a clay pot topped with uni. Chef Park uses Japanese seasonal ingredients such as miso, daikon, edamame in many of his dishes. Beverages include Japanese craft beer such as Stout Echigo and Pale Ale Kanazawa, Junmai ginjo and Junmai sakeby the glass, and unfiltered rice wine. The program menu also features the Hortus Pour, a red wine, white wine, or sake that Jang has personally chosen at an approachable price point.
Hamachi at Hortus NYC
Hortus NYC Jazz Nights
In addition to delectable food, the stylish restaurant has a vibrant ambiance. This week they introduced Jazz Nights, a blend of delicious cuisine and soulful live jazz music, every Wednesday and Thursday evening which started March 20.
Guests can experience the harmonious performances of Japanese husband-and-wife duo Chika & Tatsuya on Wednesdays and distinguished NYC-based Asian Jazz group Jinjoo Yoo Trio every Thursday. From 7:00 p.m. until 10 p.m., Hortus NYC’s 2nd-floor lounge area will be filled with swanky music, offering guests three hours of entertainment to accompany their meal.
Upgrade your viewing experience by dining on their menu of Asian fare
Wagyu Sotbap — A5 Miyazaki Wagyu, cured egg yolk, and micro greens
King Crab Noodle — fettuccine dressed with mala cream sauce, shallots, and scallion
Truffle Donabe with wild mushrooms and cured egg yolk topped with shaved black truffle
While listening, indulge in Hortus NYC’s low-ABV cocktails
Passion on the Beach — a blend of Jinro, plum sake and rosemary
Oolong High — oolong tea, soju, lemon, and cane sugar
5th Ave — a mix of Jinro 24, Hwayo 23, tonic, mint, and lime
Hortus NYC’s cocktails
About Hortus NYC
The name Hortus NYC, Latin for “garden,” reflects the emphasis on freshness, and the theme of the garden runs throughout the interior. Divided into four distinct areas, the first floor is dedicated to bar dining with an open kitchen and a Chef’s Table. The second floor contains an adjoining glass-enclosed hidden garden oasis complete with lights hanging above for a warm and intimate glow in the evening as well as the main dining room, which offers exquisite views of the illuminated stained-glass windows at the Marble Collegiate Church across the street.
Plan Your Visit
Hortus NYC
Address:
271 Fifth Avenue (between 29th and 30th Streets)
Phone:
646-858-3784
Hours:
Sunday through Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.
Thursday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Website:
hortusnyc.com
Instagram:
@hortusnyc
HIROMI AT SONY HALL
Hiromi’s Sonicwonder
Friday, October 13 and Saturday, October 14 at 7:00 p.m. (Doors at 5:30 p.m.) and 9:30 p.m. (Doors at 9:00 p.m.)
Sony Hall – 235 W. 46th Street (between 7th and 8th Avenues)
General Admission: $45 Advance | $50 Day of Show
VIP Reserved Seating: $65 | $70 Day of Show
Blue Note presents Japanese jazz composer and pianist Hiromi for her Sonicwonderland album release shows at Sony Hall. The new album, which will be released on October 6, features a new quartet, known as Hiromi’s Sonicwonder. Her twelfth album, Sonicwonderland is heavy on synthesizers, and the music video for the title track is inspired by ‘80s video games such as Super Mario Bros.
Tickets
To purchase tickets, please visit Sony Hall’s website. General Admission seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. VIP reservations include guaranteed seating in a designated section. This all-ages show will have a full dinner menu available.
Hiromi from Blue Note
About Hiromi
Ever since the 2003 release of her debut, Another Mind, Hiromi has electrified audiences with a creative energy that encompasses and eclipses the boundaries of jazz, classical, and pop, taking improvisation and composition to new heights of complexity and sophistication. On her album Silver Lining Suite, Hiromi exemplifies her virtuosic hybridity and emotional range, finding strength and hope amidst the turmoil of the pandemic.
Born in Hamamatsu, Japan in 1979, Hiromi’s first piano teacher, Noriko Hikida, exposed Hiromi to jazz and introduced her to the great pianists Erroll Garner and Oscar Peterson. She enrolled in the Yamaha School of Music and started writing music.
Hiromi moved to the United States in 1999 and studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Among her mentors was jazz bassist/arranger Richard Evans, who took Hiromi’s demo to his friend, the legendary pianist Ahmad Jamal Evans and Jamal co-produced Another Mind. The album was a critical success in North America and Japan, where it shipped gold and received the Recording Industry Association of Japan’s Jazz Album of the Year Award. Hiromi’s astonishing debut was but a forecast of the shape of jazz to come.
In 2009, she recorded with pianist Chick Corea on Duet, a live recording of their concert in Tokyo. She also appeared on bassist Stanley Clarke’s Grammy-winning release, Jazz in the Garden. Hiromi performed at the opening ceremonies of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with famed kabuki star Ebizo Ichikawa.
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SHUNZO OHNO AT JOE’S PUB
Shunzo Ohno: Incite/Insight
Sunday, September 10 at 6:00 p.m.
Joe's Pub at The Public Theater – 425 Lafayette Street (at Astor Place)
Admission: $30 (exclusive of service fees)
Join Shunzo Ohno's Ensemble and the Lotus Chamber Music Collective for an energetic night of soulful music, delicious food, drinks, and great company. The invigorating set list will feature crowd-pleasing hits and new compositions. Enjoy a night of jazz in NYC with Grammy Award winner Shunzo Ohno together with your friends and family!
The Musicians
Shunzo Ohno – Trumpet
Clifford Carter – Piano and Keys
French Jacob – Guitar
Thierry Arpino – Drums
Leo Traversa – Bass
Emily Garrison – Violin
Katherine Kyu Hyeon Lim – Violin
Jay Julio – Viola
Sasha Ono – Cello
There is a two-drink or one-food minimum per person. To purchase tickets, please visit Joe’s Pub’s website.
ABOUT SHUNZO OHO
Shunzo Ohno's live performances are known for their uplifting, joyful energy. His euphoric mastery creates a captivating celebration of the power of music.
He has collaborated with legendary musicians such as Art Blakey, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Larry Coryell, Machito, and the master arranger/composer Gil Evans, as well as international musicians across South Africa, France, Italy, and Japan.
Throughout the pandemic, Ohno remained committed to his mission of sharing a global perspective. He will present his new works of riveting Jazz and Classical String Chamber instrumentation with his distinguished Metamorphosis Ensemble.
Ohno’s story has been the subject of biographies and documentaries. The documentary short Never Defeated: The Shunzo Ohno Story highlights his remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges of an auto accident, which permanently damaged his mouth, Ohno created a unique approach to his performances and trumpet skills. Diagnosed with life-threatening throat cancer, he fought relentlessly and emerged victorious. This became a turning point for Ohno, leading to the production of award-winning albums and garnering global recognition for his works.
His twelve annual visits to the communities affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster in the northeast region of Japan continues in the Fall of 2023, creating transformative healing and bonds of friendship.
Commissioned by Ushio Publishers, Shunzo continues to inspire younger generations with his book and video, You Can Do It, available on YouTube.
Through his music, Shunzo Ohno's legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of the music scene. He serves as an inspiration to people around the world. Learn more at his website.
Support JapanCulture•NYC by becoming a member! For $5 a month, you’ll help maintain the high quality of our site while we continue to showcase and promote the activities of our vibrant community. Please click here to begin your membership today!
Japan Village’s annual Summer Festival is a free Japanese event that brings together nearly 8,000 attendees for a day of food, games, and cultural performances.