Sora Ichikawa

Sora Ichikawa is a Japanese jazz pianist, composer, singer-songwriter.

He began learning classical piano at the age of 4. At 14, he was deeply impressed by ragtime piano, which inspired him to pursue jazz music.

In 2017, he entered Senzoku Gakuen College of Music. He graduated at the top of his class from the jazz course at the same college in 2021. In May 2023, he released his first album, "Genseki!!!!!!" digitally. Later that year, in August, he participated in the Seiko Summer Jazz Camp and won the Best Arrange & Composition Award. In May 2024, the physical CD version of his first album was released. He is active not only in jazz but also in genres such as pop, R&B, and contemporary music. In addition to performing, he also produces music and composes tracks using DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations).

He plays piano and keyboards in various bands, including "Yasukagawa Daiki New Trio", "Reiya The P.A.V.E.", "InoSide", and "Guruw."

Sora Ichikawa: Straying in Alpacas

by Scott Lichtman
March 21, 2025

The song “Straying in Alpacas" is an immensely satisfying and hard-driving tune, filled with melodic turns, alto peals, rhythmic stops, and thundering walking bass lines. While it sounds as if it could come from Steps Ahead or Yellowjackets in an earlier era, the piece is actually a concoction of rising Japanese pianist Sora Ichikawa. Ichikawa released his first album in 2023 and since has demonstrated his talents in jazz, R&B, and contemporary formations, as well as adding ear-bending electronic touches ...

Sora Ichikawa is attempting to release pop music overflowing with his unique sensibility by refracting and reflecting various influences. The 11 tracks featured in this work shine with a fresh charm that feels nostalgic, drawing listeners in irresistibly. (from "Genseki!!!!!!")