Alto saxophonist Erena Terakubo, from Sapporo, Japan, began her recording career early, releasing her first album when she was only 15 years old. Inspired by a saxophone-playing M&M doll, Erena developed an interest in music that led her to become a notable figure in contemporary jazz. Her journey includes playing in big bands in Sapporo and preferring jazz over classical music.
In this episode, Erena Terakubo exuberantly shares her early influences, including J Fusion and musicians like Charlie Parker and David Sanborn. She shares insights into her life in the United States, cultural adjustments, and the challenges she encounters in New York City’s jazz scene. With guidance from fellow alto sax player Vincent Herring, Erena navigated the business side of jazz.
Erena talks about overcoming initial nervousness, gaining confidence, and arranging music for big band performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center. She highlights the significance of emotional expression in music and how her influences have shaped her improvisational style.
Additionally, Erena discusses her experiences as a woman in the predominantly male jazz industry, her ongoing project, and her future goals. This episode delves in her story and explores various aspects of jazz.
Erena acquired the nickname, North Bird. Find out at the end of this episode how she earned it.
The discography for this 32-year-old saxophonist is impressive. Erena now has six recordings as a leader: Absolutely Live (King Records, 2019), Little Girl Power (King Records, 2018), A Time for Love (Cellar Live/King International, 2016), Erena Terakubo with Legends: Burkina (Eighty-Eight’s, 2013), Erena Terakubo with Legends: New York Attitude, (King Records, 2011), and North Bird (King Records, 2011). What is more impressive are the personnel for her first three projects. Listen to this conversation to learn about this.
Thanks to King Records, we will listen to three tracks from Erena’s latest recording, Erena Terakubo: Absolutely Live! The quartet includes Erena Terakubo-Alto Saxophone, soprano saxophone; Mayuko Katakura-piano, Rhodes; Motoi Kanamori-bass; Shinnosuke Takahashi-drums, percussion. All compositions written by Erena Terakubo. 1. Little Girl Power 8:26), 2. A Crystal Path (6:54), 3. Be Nice (4:47)
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Photo by Yasuhisa Yoneda