Kenji Lee

“Lee achieved the principles of truth, goodness and beauty with his music.” (Filipe Freitas, Jazz Trail)

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kenji lee is a saxophonist, composer-improviser, and educator based in southeastern michigan.

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born in tokyo, japan, and raised in the seaside town of laguna beach, california, lee began studying music at age 4 and spent most of his childhood immersed in music. he spent a decade learning from the late-great bassist roger shew, to whom he owes an endless debt of gratitude.

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lee attended the university of michigan, where he studied privately with andrew bishop, robert hurst, and miles okazaki. upon graduation, he spent time in both the detroit & seattle scenes performing with a wide array of musicians. to name a few: wayne horvitz, robert hurst, marion hayden, kayvon gordon, andrew bishop, marcus elliot, david alvarez iii, lex korten, jonathan barahal taylor, and andy peck. all of these folks are musicians of the highest order and he feels extremely fortunate to have had each one of them shape his journey through music.

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lee’s latest album, “Kyudo” features his working ensemble: the fortune teller trio (bassist andy peck and percussionist jonathan barahal taylor), as well as special guest, vocalist estar cohen. you can read more about the album at: kenjilee.net/kyudo

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