Keiko Matsui

Pianist, composer, and humanitarian Keiko Matsui and her unique melting pot of musical influences have garnered her a devout international following.  This stunning, profound artist and world citizen is celebrating a triumphant 25 years of recording in the US.  Matsui is an icon of Contemporary Jazz, she is one of the most recognized artists in the genre. Her elegant piano melodies and gentle jazz grooves have enormous appeal resulting in sold out appearances at concert halls across the world.  A true humanitarian, she has lent her voice to raise awareness for such causes as The United Nations World Food Program, The National Donor Program, and UNESCO.  Her 2012 recording, Soul Quest, is a riveting new collection of songs that unfold like an epic journey. With an all-star cast that includes such heavyweights as producer and drummer Narada Michael Walden, guitarist Chuck Loeb, saxophonist Kirk Whalum, and bassist Marcus Miller, among others. Matsui explores themes of love, loss, spirituality and environmental consciousness.  She is the first Japanese musician to top the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts, and has shared the stage with such luminaries Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter Hugh Masekela, George Duke, and countless others.