Famous Japanese saxophonists
How familiar are you with saxophone players active in Japan?
While overseas saxophonists often get most of the attention, Japan also has a wealth of outstanding musicians!
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of players—from superstars who have led the scene for many years to younger musicians who’ve been attracting attention in recent years.
We’re highlighting artists not only from the jazz and fusion worlds, but also those active in classical and pop scenes.
You might even discover the sax player who performed on one of your favorite songs.
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Famous Japanese saxophonists (11–20)
YES OR NOTerakubo Erena
Elena Terakubo, who began playing the saxophone at the age of nine, was already performing publicly by middle school.
At 13, she became the youngest recipient of the Boston Berklee Award.
In 2010, during her senior year of high school, she made her major debut, then studied abroad at Berklee College of Music in the United States, and subsequently built a brilliant career based in New York.
Her powerful performances—transcending gender, age, and nationality, and grounded in tireless effort—are truly compelling.
We look forward to seeing what she does next.
Only a handfulMiyazaki Takamutsu
Takayuki Miyazaki is known as the saxophonist who was a member of T-SQUARE.
He also plays the EWI, which he began practicing after it was decided he would join T-SQUARE.
He started playing saxophone at age 13 when he entered Konan Junior High School in Kobe, and in September 1992 he went to the United States to enroll at Berklee College of Music.
Since leaving T-SQUARE in 2000, he has been active with his own projects and units.
He has also joined tours for artists such as Yuji Oda and Toko Furuuchi.
Take a wild guessOishi Masaki
Masaki Oishi, a saxophonist in both classical and contemporary music, is an exceptional performer with outstanding technique and knowledge, having graduated with high honors from the Tokyo University of the Arts and the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris.
He is also dedicated to collaborations in contemporary music and across diverse genres, and can be regarded as one of the promising artists who will shape the music of the future.
Zuizui ZukkorobashiHirano Kimitaka
While inheriting the traditions of classical music, Masataka Hirano captivates audiences with a wide range of expressive styles, including jazz and improvisation.
In 1990, while studying at Tokyo University of the Arts, he won first prize at the 7th Japan Wind and Percussion Competition.
He went on to graduate with top honors from the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris in saxophone, chamber music, and improvisation.
He then became the first Japanese winner of the Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, securing global acclaim.
His original arrangements, which incorporate elements of Japanese traditional music and children’s songs, resonate deeply with listeners.
In addition to his solo career, he is active as an educator.
With impeccable technique and rich expressiveness, his constant pursuit of new possibilities for the saxophone makes him highly recommended not only for classical listeners but also for fans of jazz and fusion.
Play That Funky MusicHonma Masato
Masato Honma is an alto saxophone player active in recordings with various artists.
Known for his tight and sleek playing, his tone stands out clearly even when performing rock numbers backed by a wind ensemble.
His crisp style blends very well within the concert band setting.
Air on the G StringMasato Kumoi
Masato Kumoi, a saxophonist, has an award-winning background, having placed in the 51st Japan Music Competition and the 39th Geneva International Music Competition.
His performances of classical pieces—backed by world-recognized artistry—feature a crystal-clear tone that feels purifying to the soul.
Famous Japanese saxophone players (21–30)
Sky WalkerMALTA
Mr.
MALTA, originally from Kurayoshi City in Tottori Prefecture.
His real name is Yoshiaki Maruta.
He joined the brass band in junior high school and began playing the saxophone.
He later entered the highly competitive Tokyo University of the Arts, and upon graduation studied abroad at Berklee College of Music, which has produced many jazz musicians; after graduating, he served as an instructor there.
He made his major debut in Japan in 1983, and you’ve probably heard his songs, known from cigarette commercials, at least once.
He is also active in initiatives to revitalize his hometown, and his friendly personality has endeared him to many.