Erena Terakubo

Erena Terakubo (寺久保エレナ, born April 3, 1992) is a Japanese jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader based in the United States. She is known for her work on alto saxophone and for performing internationally as a leader and sideman in contemporary jazz.

Early life and education Terakubo was born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.

At age 15, she received a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music's five-week summer program. She later enrolled as an undergraduate, earning an Artist Diploma in 2014 and a bachelor's degree in 2018.

Career Terakubo released her debut album, North Bird, in 2009 while still a high school student. She was described as having "blazing alto saxophone chops" early in her career.

After graduating from Berklee, Terakubo moved to New York City in 2015, where she became active in the jazz scene,

She has appeared as a member of collaborative ensembles, including the New York–based septet The Empress.

In 2025, Terakubo joined the faculty of Michigan State University as an assistant professor of jazz saxophone.

Style and influences Terakubo's playing draws on bebop and hard bop traditions and reflects the influence of Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley, Phil Woods, and Sonny Stitt.

Her playing has been described as having a strong sense of swing and a mature improvisational approach.

In coverage by public radio station WRTI, Terakubo has been described as a "sparkling torchbearer for the bebop tradition defined by Charlie Parker" .

Pianist John Beasley described her as having "a unique and beautiful voice on the saxophone with one foot in tradition, and the other with a vision for the future."

Discography As leader

North Bird (2009) New York Attitude (2011) Burkina (2013) A Time for Love (2015) Little Girl Power (2017) Step Forward (2021)