Biography
Haruka Kikuchi is a Japanese trombonist renowned for her dynamic presence in the New Orleans traditional jazz scene. Born in Ibaraki Prefecture and raised in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, she was immersed in music from an early age, excelling in piano and violin before discovering her passion for jazz trombone at age 15 after hearing a recording by the Original Dixieland Jass Band. Inspired by the tailgate trombone style of Eddie Edwards, she formed a Dixieland band in high school and later graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts in 2010 with a degree in music science.
Driven by a deep love for New Orleans jazz, Kikuchi relocated to New Orleans in 2014, where she quickly became a fixture in the city’s vibrant music community. She has performed with prominent groups such as Kermit Ruffins’ band, Marla Dixon’s Shotgun Jazz Band, The Swamp Donkeys, the all-female Shake ’Em Up Jazz Band, and the Audacity Brass Band. Her energetic and authentic approach to traditional jazz trombone has earned her acclaim as one of the world’s leading practitioners of the style, with critics dubbing her the 'Queen of the Tailgate Trombone.' Kikuchi continues to honor and advance the legacy of New Orleans jazz through both her performances and collaborations, bridging cultures and generations through her artistry.
Fun Facts
- Kikuchi’s first trombone inspiration came from a recording by the Original Dixieland Jass Band, leading her to switch from piano and violin to trombone at age 15.
- She moved over 6,700 miles from Japan to New Orleans to immerse herself in the birthplace of jazz.
- Kikuchi is a founding member of the all-female Shake ’Em Up Jazz Band, which has toured internationally, including in France and Sweden.
- She is known for surprising audiences who underestimate her based on her appearance, only to be amazed by her powerful and authentic trombone playing.
Associated Acts
- Shake 'em Up Jazz Band
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Eddie Edwards - Stylistic influence; Kikuchi was inspired to play trombone after hearing his recordings with the Original Dixieland Jass Band. (Original Dixieland Jass Band recordings) [c. 2000s (influence began at age 15)]
Key Collaborators
- Kermit Ruffins - Performed together in New Orleans traditional jazz settings. (Live performances) [2014–present]
- Marla Dixon - Member of Marla Dixon’s Shotgun Jazz Band. (Shotgun Jazz Band performances) [2014–present]
- Shake ’Em Up Jazz Band - Founding member and performer in the all-female traditional jazz ensemble. (Albums such as 'The Boy In The Boat') [2016–present]
- The Swamp Donkeys - Performer with the New Orleans-based jazz band. (Live performances) [2014–present]
- Audacity Brass Band - Performer in New Orleans brass band. (Live performances) [2014–present]
- Cha-Wa - Explored Mardi Gras Indian repertoire as a member of this street septet. (Live performances) [2017–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Japan: New Orleans Collection Series | 2020-04-01 | Album |
| Music Granola | 2015-10-21 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Mama Don't Want No Peas An Rice An Coconut Oil (Jazz'n RazzMaTazz)
- Mama Inez (Japan: New Orleans Collection Series, Vol. 8)
- Beauty and the Beast
- Mama Don't Want No Peas an Rice an Coconut Oil
- How Does A Moment Last Forever (Music Box)
- Buddy Bolden's Blues (Japan: New Orleans Collection Series)
- Mama Inez (Japan: New Orleans Collection Series)
- Main Title: Prologue Pt. 1
- The Mob Song
- How Does A Moment Last Forever
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Haruka Kikuchi has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 11, 2025 | 10:19 | Panamafrom Music Granola | Traditional Jazzw/ Leslie Cooper | |
| Nov 11, 2025 | 09:55 | give it up | Traditional Jazzw/ Leslie Cooper | |
| Nov 6, 2025 | 09:59 | Buddy Bolden's Blues | Traditional Jazzw/ Sally Young |