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Fumio Karashima was a renowned Japanese jazz pianist and composer, born on March 9, 1948, in Oita, Japan. He passed away on February 24, 2017, in Tokyo, Japan. After relocating to Tokyo, Karashima joined a jazz group and became a member of another band in 1978, performing with them for six years. His career flourished as he actively performed in the jazz scenes of the U.S. and Europe, establishing himself as one of the world's top pianists. He developed a friendship with fellow jazz greats of his generation and formed a trio with one of them. Karashima innovated in solo piano performance, further honing his skills. In 1988, he formed a highly acclaimed jazz quintet. He was also invited to perform as a soloist with Japan’s top orchestras and delivered an outstanding rendition of “Rhapsody in Blue.” In 1994, he released the album “In San Francisco,” featuring prominent musicians. Following that, he released “Open the Gate” with all-star performers and, in 1999, “Rencontre,” a duo album with harmonica virtuoso. This album showcased his exceptional piano technique, distinct from his solo works. He later formed a new trio and released “The Elysian Air” in 2002 and “It’s Just Beginning” in 2004, both hailed as masterpieces of the piano trio genre. His live recording from

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