Takeshi Nishimoto

Guitarist Takeshi Nishimoto embraces and expresses music from the European, Northern Indian, and American jazz classical traditions. He has performed extensively as a solo artist, as well as in collaborations with musicians that range from the late sitar master Rahul Sakyaputra to electronic composer John Tejada.



Born in Fukuoka, Japan, Takeshi came to the United States for one primary reason-to study guitar. As a student in the University of Southern California Thornton school of music guitar program, Takeshi gained a firm foundation in the classical tradition from some of the world's premiere guitar players such as James Smith, Scott Tennant, Bill Kanengizer, and Brian Head. In addition to European classical music, Nishimoto also explored jazz with Joe Diorio and David Oaks. Also, Takeshi had the jazz guitar legend Phil Upchurch as his mentor. In 2004, Nishimoto start playing the northern Indian classical instrument "Sarod" under the guidance of Pt. Rajeev Taranath.



Beyond USC, Takeshi also received personal instruction from the legendary Pepe Romero, playing in four of his master classes. What these teachers, as well his audiences appreciate in Takeshi is his relentless pursuit of musical innovation. He is very open, and that openness extends to his playing. He sees no conflict between the new and the old, and that is part of what makes his music so compelling.