We are delighted to be featuring saxophonist, Erena Terakubo.
KU! : Where did you grow up? Who were your main influences from there? Was there much of a scene? Do you come from a familial jazz background?
Erena: I grew up in Sapporo, Japan. I studied classical piano and jazz saxophone at the local YAMAHA music school. There was a big band for kids that was operated by the city called Sapporo Junior Jazz School. We had many concerts throughout the year. We were lucky to have the opportunity to have a workshops from the professional musicians. One time, Herbie Hancock came to give us a clinic! I studied with several teachers back then. Yosuke Sato who played the saxophone with Gregory Porter's band is one of my former teachers. Of course, he was an outstanding player in Sapporo so I decided to study with him. I'm the only musician in my family. My father is an architect and my mother is a designer for the playground equipment. But they love music, especially my father. Although my cousin in high school is trying to be a musician.
KU! : How have you combined your Japanese heritage into your playing style today?
Erena: I'm not sure if I combined my Japanese heritage into my playing style. I would love to do a project like that for the future.
KU! : what inspired you to move here to New York and how have you found it?
Erena: I think one of the big reasons would be meeting Ron Carter and Kenny Barron when I was 18 years old. I just wanted to live closer to them. But also, I wanted to be around the musicians who were better than me, to inspire and motivate me.
KU! : What music/artists are you listening to this month?
Erena: I'm listening to Clifford Brown and Lee Morgan this month.
KU! : What are you looking forward to coming up? Touring/Album/ particular gig?
Erena: I'm looking forward to play as a special guest at Turnmillnyc on December 4th!! This is my first experience with KEYEDUP!. I heard about it thought this event in Turnmill! I can't wait to explore about it more.