Tommy Morimoto had just passed his nineteenth birthday when, during an appearance in Seattle with bassist Christian McBride, the legendary saxophonist Lucky Thompson recognized Tommy’s remarkable talent and encouraged him to come to New York . After graduating from the Brubeck Institute in California the following year, Tommy took Lucky’s advice and moved to the big city to pursue a full-time musical career. Since then, Tommy has established himself as one of the most sought-after young saxophonists on the New York jazz scene.

Jazz has been a part of Tommy’s life as far back as he can remember. He started listening to his father’s Ben Webster records when he was eleven, working his way up to Ornette Coleman by the time he turned fourteen. He spent most of his adolescence in Denver , where he began playing the saxophone. At age sixteen, Tommy moved to North Carolina to attend the prestigious North Carolina School of the Arts. During his two years there, Tommy received the 2001 National Down Beat Award for “Best High School Jazz Trio” and the 2002 National Down Beat Award for “Outstanding Jazz Soloist.” At eighteen, Tommy was selected as one of only five musicians in the nation to attend the newly founded Brubeck Institute in California on a full scholarship. His time at the Brubeck Institute were very fruitful. While attending classes in music and liberal arts, Tommy played at concert halls and festivals across the country, recorded live at the Playboy Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Yoshi’s jazz club in Oakland and even made an album at rock star Steve Miller’s house.

Tommy’s proficiency at his instrument is no accident. Tommy has studied with such greats as George Coleman, Lew Tabackin, James Moody, Lee Konitz, Barry Harris, Art Lande, Bob Mover and Dave Liebman. His professional experience is also vast and varied. He has performed at both the Monterey and Playboy jazz festivals, and has appeared in concert with Dave Brubeck, Joe Wilder, Lew Tabackin, Bob Cranshaw, Les Paul, Clint Eastwood, Bill Cosby, John Handy, Nick Brignola, Christian McBride, Bobby Watson and the Mingus Big Band. Tommy is also featured as a sideman on several recordings, including one with the legendary jazz vocalist Anita O’Day.
Tommy’s playing reveals a depth of musical honesty, sincerity and knowledge. He is a lyrical melodist and a cunning improviser. His experience and reputation are unrivaled for his age. However, what most distinguishes Tommy Morimoto is his unique ability to please musicians and listeners alike.

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