a nonprofit presenter of jazz artistic and education programs

Toshiko Akiyoshi, solo

Saturday, October 28 • 2pm

Florence Gould Theatre, Legion of Honor
  • venue info
  • $30 GA
    • "One of the finest living be-bop pianists." — The New York Times

    In this rare solo concert, exclusive to SFJAZZ members, Tokisho Akiyoshi will imbue Florence Gould Hall with over fifty years of jazz wisdom. As the first Japanese student to attend the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston and the first woman to co-lead a long-term big band, Toshiko Akiyoshi has a distinguished history as a jazz pioneer.

    Best known as a composer and arranger par excellence, Akiyoshi also excels as a bebop-inspired pianist—the skill which first prompted the great Oscar Peterson to champion her talents a half-century ago. This intimate performance places the focus back on Akiyoshi’s pianism, highlighting both her virtuosity and, in her own words, her quest for “more substance and more quality rather than quantity of notes. Read Program Notes

    Personnel:
    • Toshiko Akiyoshi, piano