About

The band name "Kishoten" originates from a Japanese phrase, "ki-sho-ten-ketsu," which represents a method for developing stories. "Ki" signifies the beginning, "sho" represents the development, "ten" denotes the change, and "ketsu" signifies the conclusion. As a result, "ki-sho-ten" signifies a story without a conclusion.

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Michiro Negishi's music career began in Japan when his musical collaboration with Makoto Ito resulted in their composition being featured on a compilation album produced by Keiichi Suzuki, a renowned Japanese musician. Subsequently, Michiro participated as a backing vocalist in recordings for Saeko Suzuki and Sho-Shonen.

 

Upon relocating to Connecticut, Michiro formed the jazz trio Kishoten with the talents of Neddy Smith, known for his work with Eric Gale, and Stephen Zieminski, who had studied under the late Pt. Subhankar Banerjee to learn tablas. After Michiro's move to New York, Kishoten underwent a transformation with the introduction of a new rhythm section composed of Bo Zhang and Doruk Öztürk. Kishoten's lineup was further completed with the addition of Noah Rosner.

 

As a vocalist, Noah Rosner has already garnered national recognition in the field, earning a place among the select few vocal members of the 2017 Grammy Foundation® Jazz Band Choir. At a remarkably young age of 17, he performed on national broadcasts and at prestigious venues. Noah's success continued as he emerged victorious in the acclaimed Jazz Forum Arts Society Jazz Vocal Competition in the same year.