Akihito (Aki) Gorai, a multifaceted artist hailing from Harlem, NYC, exudes a distinct blend of nostalgia and innovation within the contemporary jazz realm. A virtuoso drummer, pianist, and composer, Aki's sounds effortlessly traverse the spectrum of human emotion, evoking smiles, aloof introspection, and everything in between. Influenced by an eclectic array of musicians spanning genres from jazz to Japanese Sankyoku, Aki's music is a mosaic of disparate influences intricately woven into a cohesive and evocative whole.
Born to Filipino-American and Japanese heritage, Aki's musical journey commenced at the tender age of six under the tutelage of the esteemed classical pianist Michiyo Morikawa. His insatiable curiosity for diverse musical expressions led him to explore jazz under the guidance of Japanese jazz pianist Eishin Nosé, igniting a passion for improvisation and composition that continues to shape his artistic identity. Aki's artistic evolution took flight during his formative years in high school, when he honed his skills as a percussionist under the mentorship of Satoshi Takeishi.
A trailblazer within his school community, Aki spearheaded the establishment of the first-ever Jazz Club at the Bronx High School of Science. Throughout his budding-yet-illustrious career, Aki has collaborated with an array of esteemed musicians and educators, expanding his musical horizons through immersive experiences with diverse cultural traditions.
From studying the shakuhachi with Elizabeth Brown and Ralph Samuelson to delving into the intricacies of tabla with Samir Chatterjee, Aki's journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to artistic exploration and cultural exchange. A recent graduate of The School of Jazz & Contemporary Music at the College of Performing Arts of the New School, Aki continues to push the boundaries of sonic innovation, showcasing his compositions with captivating live performances.
With each note, Aki endeavors to forge a profound connection with his audience, inviting them on a transformative journey through the universal language of music. In Aki's hands, the piano keys and drumsticks become vessels for emotional resonance, echoing the timeless dialogue between artist and listener.
Nathan Nakadegawa-Lee (Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet), Kate Pass (Bass), Dino Kim (Drums)
Jazz - All originals by Akihito Gorai