Hiromi and Kazunori Kumagai Brought Duet to SFJAZZ
The longtime collaborators performed at Miner Auditorium on October 1 and 3.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Jazz
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Pianist Hiromi and tap dancer Kazunori Kumagai showcased their 20-year musical partnership during a residency at SFJAZZ. The pair brought their improvised performance style to Miner Auditorium for two of the four nights in Hiromi’s recent series.
Why it matters
The performances highlighted the unique synergy between Hiromi’s piano melodies and Kumagai’s percussive tap work. These shows marked a stop in the city for the duo, who previously gained international recognition for their collaboration at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Opening Ceremony.
The artists celebrated a 20-year professional partnership across their residency dates. This collaboration was featured in 2 of the 4 consecutive nights Hiromi performed at Miner Auditorium.
The players
Hiromi
A jazz pianist who held a four-night series at SFJAZZ.
Kazunori Kumagai
A tap dancer who has partnered with Hiromi for two decades.
The details
During the sets, Kazunori Kumagai utilized a wooden tap board to generate percussive rhythms that matched Hiromi’s piano lines. The duo engaged in call-and-response improvisation, featuring a medley that blended Bedřich Smetana's 'The Moldau' with Henry Mancini's 'Moon River'.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: The duo performed at Miner Auditorium.
October 3, 2026: The duo performed at Miner Auditorium.
2020: The artists performed at the Tokyo Olympic Opening Ceremony.
Across the Bay
This performance follows the global stage set by the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Opening Ceremony, where both artists previously collaborated. The SFJAZZ dates mark a continuation of their established musical rapport.
The performances occurred at Miner Auditorium in the city. Fans of the duo can continue to follow local listings for future appearances by the artists at regional venues.
The takeaway
The performance demonstrated how long-term artistic partnerships evolve through live improvisation. Check the SFJAZZ event calendar for future residencies from artists who frequently collaborate with local venues.
Further reading
For more on local musical performances, browse the latest entries in Jazz.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Cal | Berkeley news.
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