Written interview with marimba player Mika Stoltzman․ On her new album Memories of Tomorrow․
Jazz Blues European Union: – Thank you for taking the time to speak with Jazz Blues EU. To begin, when did you start performing?
Mika Stoltzman: – I began performing at the age of 30, and made my official debut when I was 35.
What do you consider to be your hometown, and how has it influenced your music?
My true hometown is Kumamoto, Japan. But musically, I was deeply influenced by my time in Toronto, Canada, and in New York City.
Which performers have been your greatest inspirations?
Chick Corea, Steve Gadd, Richard Stoltzman, Mike Mainieri, and Keith Jarrett.
What do you find most challenging about being an independent artist in today’s music industry?
I would say touring internationally. That is the greatest challenge.
What do you base your idea of success on?
For me, success is when I am able to realize my own musical vision.
Can you share about your experiences collaborating with other artists? How has it influenced your creative process?
I’ve been fortunate to meet and collaborate with the artists I admired most, and those experiences accelerated my musical growth tremendously.
For example, I learned the sense of groove from Steve Gadd. From my husband Richard, I learned about rubato, phrasing, and the art of silence—things that are very difficult to express on the marimba.
Tell us about your latest release, Memories of Tomorrow. What inspired its creation?
My latest album, Memories of Tomorrow, was released on July 25, 2025 on Big Round Records. It is my fifth album produced by Steve Gadd.
I recorded it with Steve on drums, Eddie Gomez on bass, and Geoffrey Keezer on piano—musicians I’ve played with for 15 years. On one Keith Jarrett piece, vibraphonist Mike Mainieri and clarinetist Richard Stoltzman also joined.
Do you have any upcoming news to share?
Yes. On January 24, 2026, I will release another album on AVIE Records, featuring classical works I recorded with orchestra and string ensemble.
How does Memories of Tomorrow fit into your creative path? Was it a goal you had long hoped to achieve?
I believe this album represents the culmination of my work with Steve Gadd and Eddie Gomez.
How do you approach the process of songwriting? Are there particular themes or emotions you like to explore?
I’ve never composed original works myself, but I do arrange pieces.
As an independent musician, how do you balance creative freedom with commercial appeal?
The marimba is a large instrument, difficult to tour with, and not widely known. Marketing and business are therefore quite challenging.
Still, the marimba has both percussive power and the ability to sing melodically, with a simple yet unique sound. I believe it offers endless possibilities, and I’ve tried to pursue those.
What role does technology and social media play in your career?
I’m not entirely sure how effective social media promotion really is, but I do believe it helps me stay connected with the fans who come to my concerts.
Could you share a memorable live performance that left a lasting impact on you?
Hearing Miles Davis with the Gil Evans Orchestra live when I was 20 years old is something I will never forget.
Musicians often build close relationships with their audiences. How do you connect with your fans and foster community?
By continuing to release new albums. That allows listeners to see how I am evolving now, and naturally leads to live performances as an extension of that.
Lastly, how can fans follow your work, and would you share a message for them?
I am constantly exploring the possibilities of expression through the marimba. I would be truly grateful if you continue to support me warmly on this journey.
By Olivia Peevas
