Nathan Hanson photo (at right) by Benny Moreno

Miki Yamanaka lights up every room she plays, blending deep swing, sharp instincts, and a joyful presence that draws listeners in. Witness her Midwest debut at Berlin!

Band Members:
Miki Yamanaka - Piano
Tyrone Allen II - Bass
Jimmy Macbride - Drums

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Japanese-born pianist Miki Yamanaka has wasted no time in establishing herself as one of the leading personalities of her generation on the piano and beyond. Critics laud her “light, expressive touch and solidly crafted, mainstream approach” (All About Jazz), while audiences delight in not only her playing, but also her vibrant personality. Yamanaka has called New York City home since 2012 and has held notable residencies at mainstay West Village clubs Smalls and Mezzrow. Yamanaka has also gained international recognition from her albums as a leader. Her most recent and most celebrated release, “Chance” (Cellar Music), features her NYC rhythm section, Tyrone Allen and Jimmy Macbride.

During the pandemic, Yamanaka developed a weekly in-home livestreaming concert series titled “Miki’s Mood,” on which she features a who’s who of NYC talent (including her husband and frequent collaborator, drummer Jimmy Macbride). The series showcases her vast knowledge of jazz standards and tunes, often featuring themed offerings of various composers from both the Great American Songbook as well as iconic jazz composers.

As a sideman, Yamanaka has worked with jazz luminaries such as alto saxophonist Antonio Hart, who posits, “Miki will be recognized as one of the most exceptional artists of her generation, as she is already one of the most talented and dedicated musicians from Japan.” She currently works in the Harish Raghavan Quintet and the Mingus Big Band. One of her most respected mentors on piano and organ, Larry Goldings, once mused, “If only I could have Miki Yamanaka comp behind me!—”a compliment of the highest order from one master pianist to another. Her recorded work has received a myriad of glowing reviews, and the iconic DownBeat jazz magazine has repeatedly awarded her high marks.

On top of her exciting work as a bandleader in New York and abroad, Miki can often be found out and about most nights, where her infectious smile and gregarious nature engender fast friends in every audience she encounters. She has many hobbies, including cooking; knitting; and perhaps most visibly, wearing her vast collection of kimonos on her gigs, proudly representing her heritage and culture night after night as she dazzles audiences around the world.