Naomi Nakanishi is a dynamic pianist, improviser, and composer, currently based in Brooklyn, NY. Their work blends elements of Black American, Indie-Folk, and Contemporary Classical music, inviting listeners with intricate melodies woven with lush harmony and unconventional rhythmic phrasing. Drawing on a diverse and rich musical background, Naomi’s music aims to challenge tradition, deconstruct, and engage with genre and form while nurturing exploration within open-form improvisation. This can be heard in their trio, Whimsy, and bass-less quartet. As a bandleader and side-person, they have performed at notable venues including Roulette Intermedium, The Kennedy Center, Bar Bayeux, Dizzy’s Club, and Birdland. Naomi holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Eastman School of Music and Master’s in Music from the Berklee Global Jazz Institute.