Biography
Miho Hazama is a visionary Japanese-born jazz conductor, composer, and vocalist who has made a decisive impact on contemporary jazz through her leadership of M_Unit, a 13-piece chord-less big-band inspired ensemble. Hazama not only conducts but also writes much of the repertoire, weaving complex textures that fuse big-band energy with contemporary and classical sensibilities. This distinctive approach positions her as a leading voice in modern jazz composition and ensemble direction.
Hazama has collaborated with and written for renowned ensembles and artists, including the Danish Radio Big Band, Metropole Orkest, Joshua Redman, Lionel Loueke, Christian McBride, and Gil Goldstein. Her leadership has earned international recognition, including a Grammy nomination for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album for Dancer in Nowhere (2019), a testament to her craft and the collective creativity of M_Unit.
Discography Highlights
- Dancer in Nowhere (2019) — Grammy-nominated Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album.
- Imaginary Visions (2021) — Featuring the Danish Radio Big Band.
- Beyond Orbits (2023) — 10th-anniversary release from M_Unit.
Upcoming Tour Info
2025 marks a busy year with projects like Live Life This Day: Celebrating Thad Jones (Edition Records). Hazama and M_Unit are set for live performances across the United States, including a date at Strathmore, and in Japan at Blue Note Tokyo. Dates are announced as they become available: “Date to be announced” will be updated as showtimes and venue details are confirmed. For fans and first-time attendees, Hazama’s concerts offer intricate orchestration, dynamic textures, and a compelling blend of jazz vocabulary that rewards attentive listening.
Follow Miho Hazama for the latest announcements and exclusive updates via official social channels and her website.
Social and Official Links
Venue notes: Hazama’s performances with M_Unit are known for their tight ensemble playing, nuanced dynamics, and immersive soundscapes. When touring, expect a program that showcases Hazama’s prowess as a conductor and composer, with selections that highlight the group’s adventurous arrangements and the expressive capabilities of a 13-piece chamber orchestra.