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Noriko Ueda

Noriko Ueda

Big-Band Maven

Experience Noriko Ueda’s commanding bass, bold arrangements, and dynamic stage presence as she leads ensembles from the intimate trio to grand big band—never a dull moment, always something to swing about.

big-band jazzmodern jazzcompositionfemale-led jazz ensembles

About

Noriko Ueda (born March 14, 1972) is a Japanese jazz bassist, composer, and arranger from Hyōgo Prefecture. She studied classical piano and voice in Japan before earning a degree in Jazz Composition from Berklee College of Music in 1997, then moving to New York City. A member of the DIVA Jazz Orchestra, Artemis (lead by Renee Rosnes), Ted Rosenthal Trio, and leader of her own Noriko Ueda Jazz Orchestra and Trio, she has become known for her compositions, arrangements, and performances across small and large ensembles.

Music Style

Her sound blends modern big-band swing with lyrical improvisation, underpinned by a deep, expressive double bass tone. Her arrangements often juxtapose rhythmic drive with lush orchestration and ensemble interplay.

Background

Hometown
Hyōgo, Japan
Education
Berklee College of Music
Instruments
bass
Active
1990s-present

Similar Artists

If you like Renee Rosnes, Carla Bley, or Maria Schneider — you'll love Noriko Ueda

Renee Rosnes
Band-leader of Artemis, strong compositional voice, modern big-band work overlaps with Noriko’s ensemble projects
90%
Maria Schneider
Big-band composer/arranger known for lush orchestration and lyrical, dynamic works similar to Noriko’s arranging style
80%
Carla Bley
Composer-arranger leader with off-beat harmonies and bold ensemble writing, comparable exploratory spirit
70%

Notable Collaborations

Renee RosnesTed RosenthalSherrie Maricle & the DIVA Jazz Orchestra
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