Akemi Yamada
Voice

A Native of Tokyo, Japan, Ms. Akemi Yamada was raised in a musical family. She began formal piano studies at the age of 4 and later started voice training at Gakushuin University in Tokyo. Ms. Yamada relocated to the United States in 2003 to pursue a BFA degree at the City College of New York majoring in jazz vocal performance. While at the college, Ms. Yamada received the Israel E. Drabkin Memorial Award, the Pro-Musica Award, and a full scholarship to the Center of Improvisational Music summer workshops. Ms. Yamada studied with notable musicians and vocalists such as Sheila Jordan, Janet Steele, John Patitucci and Mike Holober. She graduated in 2007 with Summa Cum Laude after completing her extensive training in musical studies and performance.


Ms. Yamada has maintained an active performance career. In the US, she recorded her first solo album, With a Song in My Heart, in 2006 with leading musicians in the New York jazz scene including Chuck Stevens (guitar), Tal Ronen (bass) and Quincy Davis (drums). She has also performed in many venues in New York City, including Columbia University, and the jazz festivals at Aaron Davis Hall and Merkin Concert Hall. Furthermore, Ms. Yamada has been diversifying her singing career by working as a member and soloist for Ronald Lashley’s Caribbean/Brazilian fusion band “Bossa Lyfe”, female vocal ensembles “Las Sirenas” and “Aedea”, Harmonia Opera Company with the rendition of a Japanese opera “En Saga” at Merkin Concert Hall, and Grace Congregational Church with African American Hymms and gospel singing.


Over the years, Ms. Yamada has been an active teacher and vocal instructor. She is experienced in teaching students of all ages and levels. In addition to having her private teaching studio, Mr. Yamada has served as teaching assistant to the City College music program. Ms. Yamada is currently a faculty member of the Bergen Academy of Music and Art.