Jeff Kashiwa is a prominent saxophonist and a well-known name in the smooth jazz genre. Born on April 12, 1963, in Seattle, Washington, Kashiwa’s music journey began when he started playing saxophone at the age of 10. He honed his skills while attending school and was eventually accepted to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.
After college, Kashiwa became a member of popular fusion band The Rippingtons in 1989, where he quickly gained recognition for his smooth and soulful playing. He played with the band for nine years, recording several albums and performing on tours around the world.
In 1999, Kashiwa left The Rippingtons to pursue a solo career, releasing his debut album “Remember Catalina” the same year. He has since released several successful albums as a solo artist, including “Simple Truth” and “The Very Best of Jeff Kashiwa.”
Kashiwa has also collaborated with other notable jazz musicians, including Russ Freeman, Keiko Matsui, and Chuck Loeb. He has won several awards throughout his career, including Best New Artist at the National Smooth Jazz Awards in 2000 and 2001.
In addition to his music career, Kashiwa is also an educator, hosting saxophone clinics and workshops across the country. He is a Yamaha Performing Artist and regularly collaborates with the company on new saxophone designs and products.
Despite his busy schedule, Kashiwa is actively involved in charity work and frequently performs at benefit concerts. He also enjoys spending time with his family and supporting his children’s music endeavors.
Overall, Jeff Kashiwa is a talented and versatile saxophonist who has made a significant contribution to the smooth jazz genre. His soulful and melodic playing style has made him a favorite among jazz enthusiasts and saxophone players alike.
Page last updated 4/8/2023.
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