Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra

About

Known as one of the most prominent female jazz musicians of her generation, Toshiko Akiyoshi first began playing the piano in her native Japan at the age of 7. When she was 16 in the 1950s, musicians were in popular demand to entertain American soldiers in Beppu, Akiyoshi's hometown, and so she kept a steady job as a pianist at a local club. It was here that she became infatuated with jazz and was eventually discovered by American pianist at Oscar Peterson, who helped her record her first album. From here, Akiyoshi managed to secure a scholarship to Berklee School of Music and form several successful music projects, including the Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra.