Akiko Tsuruga

Organist Akiko Tsuruga is an accomplished composer and extraordinary performer who has received high accolades from saxophonist Lou Donaldson, calling her “The Queen of the Organ”. Organist Dr. Lonnie Smith says “Akiko’s playing is like watching a flower blooming and a bird spreading her wings in the music world. Akiko is here to stay.” Tsuruga’s playing complements fellow musicians on stage to sound as good as possible, sharing a common joy, and an intensely positive energy for great musical experiences. Akiko’s style is light, and can shift from playing funky boogaloo to be-bop to blues. Tsuruga has played in Lou Donaldson’s band since 2007 at New York’s Carnegie Hall, The Village Vanguard, and Dizzy’ Club. Akiko began playing the organ at the age of 3, and includes organists Jimmy Smith, Brother Jack McDuff, Charles Earland, Jimmy McGriff, and her mentor and teacher, Dr Lonnie Smith as influences. Tsuruga has 10 recordings as a leader and ranks as one of today’s top organists. Tsuruga is selected 2020 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll Rising Star Organ. She is the real deal.