Born and raised in Seattle, Deems Tsutakawa draws upon life experience for his music. Although Tsutakawa’s grandparents are from Japan, he describes his life experience as “an American experience.”
He enjoys performing and appreciates the ability jazz allows for improvisation and spontaneity.
“Jazz gives a certain freedom and identity. Jazz gives a freedom of expression which is an ‘in the moment’ type music.” ♦
Tsutakawa is being honored as a pioneer in music by the Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation on Oct. 16 at China Harbor Restaurant.