and began playing the electronic organ at the age of 3
After graduating from high school, she attended the Yamaha Music School
to pursue her music interest
While there, she received formal training in areas such as
musical theory,harmony, rhythm training, ensemble, and musical composition
She also gained exposure to various styles of music
including Jazz, Classics, Pops, R&B and Latin
Subsequently, after graduating she switched to the acoustic piano
Through her work as a performer in a contemporary music band and as a composer
she became drawn to live jazz music and started pursuing this further
In 2009 was tutored by Jason Moran in New York City
she played in Bucharest International Jazz Competition 2012 as a semi-finalist
and her trio was placed in 2nd place in the Kanazawa Jazz Competition 2013
In 2014, Yuko released her 1st album, Tickle from Forward Record
This album recieved review from a music magazine,"Jazz Hihyo".
She played in Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka as "Tickle" release tour.
In addition, she played in France and Korea and have received a great success.
In 2015, her composition,
"Tickle" was picked up as a semi-finalist in International Songwriting Competition.
In 2017, performed at Pinneberg Jazz Festival in Germany with her group.
In 2024, Yuko's Group ”Dazz Dazz” released Blue Glow from Forward Record.
Currently, Yuko performs around the Kansai area in Japan with her group,
"Dazz Dazz" ,"otoilo"(a duet of piano&voice and bass)
and also in collaboration with others
She wishes to explore the beauty andjoyfulness of music
as well as exploring her own style of music
Influence:
Thelonious Monk, Ahmad Jamal, Kenny Drew, Jaki Byard,
Chris McGregor, Keith Jarrett,Benny Green,Mulgrew Miller,
Geri Allen, Jason Moran, Kris Davis, Kit Downes...
as well as film of MUSICAL