Yasuaki Shimizu, born on August 9, 1954, in Shimada, Shizuoka, Japan, is a distinguished composer, tenor saxophonist, and producer renowned for his innovative fusion of jazz, classical, and experimental music. He gained prominence in the 1980s with his band Mariah, notably through the album "Utakata no Hibi" (1983), which blended traditional Japanese rhythms with rock elements. As a solo artist, Shimizu is acclaimed for his reinterpretations of J.S. Bach's "Cello Suites," transcribed for tenor saxophone, and his unique compositions that transcend genre boundaries. His extensive collaborations include work with Ryuichi Sakamoto and DJ Towa Tei, reflecting his versatility and enduring influence in the global music scene. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yasuaki_Shimizu?utm_source=openai))