Hiroya Tsukamoto w/ James Parison

Hiroya Tsukamoto is a Japanese-born fingerstyle guitarist who moved to the United States in 2000 to attend the Berklee College of Music. Needless to say, he’s not only a dizzyingly agile fingerpicker, but a soulful and transcendent performer, with compositions that combine instrumental guitar work with lyrical performance and spoken stories from his life.

Tsukamoto has been recognized for his talents on stages such as at Blue Note in New York City, Japanese National Television (NHK), International Storytelling Center and United Nations, and by scoring second place at the International Fingerstyle Guitar Championship both in 2018 and 2022.

Tsukamoto brings a blend of masterful fingerstyle guitar and evocative storytelling that transcends cultural barriers. His artistry, honed at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, has been celebrated on renowned stages like the Blue Note in NYC and the United Nations, and lauded for its “delicate, fluid, and beautifully detailed” style by Acoustic Guitar magazine.

Tsukamoto’s concerts are not just musical events; they are immersive experiences that weave lyrical narratives with intricate melodies. Recognized for his soulful performances that create an orchestra at his fingertips, he invites audiences into his world of musical exploration and emotional expression. This is a rare opportunity to witness a performer who has been celebrated for his ability to take listeners on an “impressionistic journey” (Boston Herald). Enchanting music that promises to resonate long after the final note is played.

James Parison has been creating music in New England since the early 2000’s. His sometimes cryptic / surreal lyrics explore themes of existentialism, time, paradox, dualism, spirituality, nostalgia, and love. He’s dabbled in / combined many musical genres and his influences always bleed into the mix. So if you’re into Radiohead, The Stones, Kurt Vile, Steely Dan, The Strokes, Lou Reed, etc. then get ready to hear all of them simultaneously… but in a mostly tolerable way.

Doors are at 7pm and music will begin around 730 or so. Seating is first come first served and this show is all ages.

Host or Publisher Nova Arts