We were lucky to catch up with Jinshi Ozaki recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jinshi, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
I recently finished creating a new album and now I’m preparing for its release. This is a unique and ambitious work, all original songs and finished with acoustic guitar improvisation. Let me share a little about my previous album here. When the pandemic made society anything but normal, at first, I was unsure what to do. But with extra time on my hands, I went to the recorder and played a few chords with my Stratocaster (Electric Guitar). It had a nice feel that was beyond my expectations, so I layered improvised melodies over it. I added some more sections in this manner. After that, I let my friend hear the tune and she said, “Why not make an album with this feel?” That idea inspired me to get started with it. I’m kinda a lazy person when left alone. So, I kept to a steady pace of recording one tune per week and completed 12 tunes in 12 weeks. “End of Summer” is the name of my most recent album, and that’s how it happened. While it may seem inappropriate, I am thankful for the pandemic in some way. I’ll put a link here, so please have a listen if you’re interested.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Awarded a scholarship, Jinshi completed his professional major at Berklee College of Music and pursued further studies in counterpoint and advanced guitar voicing concepts under the tutelage of Ted Greene. He has embarked on widespread tours across the United States, Canada, Africa, and Japan, performing alongside renowned artists like Kirk Whalum, Jody Watley, Keiko Matsui, Jimbo Akira, and Scott Kinsey. Jinshi also boasts extensive experience as a seasoned session guitarist for various television shows and in the studio scene. Since 2004, he has shared his expertise by teaching at the Musicians Institute.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the process of creation itself. Creating something new that reflects my heart and mind. My journey starts with a simple idea, a scratch, and then watch it evolve, expand, and take shape, much like an organic entity. Here, my mind is deeply engaged with the potential of what could be. The act of creating is a fulfilling experience, but sharing my work with others and witnessing their emotional reactions is even more satisfying. It’s my belief that music only feels real when it’s shared.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jinshiozaki.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jinshi.ozaki
Image Credits
Chuck Koton (for the two black and white photos)