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Tommy Morimoto

Jazz Journeyman Saxophonist

A seasoned tenor saxophonist and Brubeck Fellow who has shared the stage with legends like Dave Brubeck and Anita O'Day.

bebophard bopmainstream jazz

About

Based in New York, Tommy Morimoto is an accomplished saxophonist known for his work as a sideman and leader. A former Brubeck Institute Fellow, he has collaborated with jazz luminaries including Hank Jones, Les Paul, and Junior Mance. His career is defined by performances at prestigious global venues like Birdland and Ronnie Scott's.

Music Style

Morimoto delivers a robust tenor sound deeply rooted in the hard bop and bebop traditions. His playing emphasizes lyrical improvisation and a swinging, straight-ahead jazz aesthetic.

Background

Hometown
Matthews, NC
Education
University of the Pacific
Instruments
saxophone (tenor), saxophone (alto), vocals
Active
2002-present

Similar Artists

If you like Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, or Bob Mover — you'll love this artist

Sonny Rollins
Morimoto cites Rollins as a primary influence and shares a similarly robust, rhythmically driving tenor approach.
90%
Dexter Gordon
Both artists possess a large, swinging tone and a melodic, storytelling quality in their improvisations.
80%
Bob Mover
Morimoto is a long-time associate of Mover and shares a similar commitment to the bebop language and phrasing.
80%

Notable Collaborations

Dave BrubeckAnita O'DayHank JonesLes PaulSanti DebrianoBob MoverJunior ManceJoe Wilder
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Upcoming Events

Tommy Morimoto's next NYC show is Wednesday, August 19 at Jazzcultural.

Aug 19
Aug 20

Past Events

Jun 13
Jun 13
Jun 12
Jun 12

Tommy Morimoto Quintet

Smalls

saxophone (tenor) • Headliner

Apr 22

Tommy Morimoto Quartet

Smalls

saxophone (tenor) • Headliner

Apr 22

Tommy Morimoto Quintet

Smalls

saxophone (tenor) • Headliner

Apr 22

Tommy Morimoto Quartet

Smalls

saxophone (tenor) • Headliner

Apr 22
Nov 1
Oct 31