“Practically everything I know about writing, I learned from music” (‘Jazz Messenger’ by Haruki Murakami, New York Times)

Music has always been at the core of Haruki Murakami’s work and life. Describing his writing style as “kind of a free improvisation”, Murakami has conjured up hundreds of moments inside his stories where music presents an enchanting soundtrack for setting the scene, hinting and defining character, and opening new doors of imagination.

The literary icon Murakami’s passion for jazz is not only reflected in his novels and his extensive record collection (rumoured to exceed 10,000)…He also ran a jazz club in Tokyo from 1974 to 1981, which he named Peter Cat after his pet.

In this specially curated show, audiences can step into a Japanese listening club for one day only, hearing reinterpreted classics that formed Murakami’s literary universe, and allowing travel between realms and imaginations – and perhaps even experiencing Peter Cat itself.

Three established bands from Japan, Junko Onishi Trio, Sachi Hayasaka / TReS and Yoshio Suzuki’s The Blend with Kosuke Mine, Keisuke Nakamura, Hakuei Kim, Tamaya Honda will transport audiences to different eras of American jazz, exploring Japanese perception of these classics and presenting original compositions. With spoken word elements, a unique stage design, and newly-commissioned visuals, the show promises to be a unique immersive project and a highlight of the festival.

Junko Onishi Trio Pianist Junko Onishi is one of the leading voices in Japanese jazz. A Berklee College of Music graduate, she has performed with Betty Carter, Joe Henderson, Jackie McLean, and the Mingus Big Band, and was the first Japanese artist to hold a week-long residency at New York’s Village Vanguard.

Recent projects include collaborations with Robert Hurst and Karriem Riggins, music direction for Haruki Murakami’s Murakami Jam series, and her first solo piano album, American Classics (2026).

TReS is a Tokyo-based family trio featuring Sachi Hayasaka, Toshiki Nagata, and Rio Nagata. Blending jazz improvisation with Argentine tango, Brazilian music, and global influences, the group has toured extensively across Japan, South America, the United States, and Cuba.

Formed by legendary bassist Yoshio “Chin” Suzuki, The Blend unites Japan’s leading improvisers in a dynamic contemporary acoustic jazz quintet. Formed in 2019, the group combines powerful ensemble playing, lyrical compositions, and adventurous improvisation. Their acclaimed albums Five Dance (2022) and Expectation (2025) have established them as one of Japan’s most compelling jazz ensembles.

Update: We are deeply sad to announce that Yoshio Suzuki, the renowned jazz bassist and composer, passed away peacefully on 23 September 2026, at the age of 80, following an illness. Yoshio Suzuki was a highly respected figure in Japanese jazz, presenting numerous original compositions throughout his career and establishing a distinctive musical voice of his own.

THE BLEND's remaining performances scheduled for 2026, including its appearance at the EFG London Jazz Festival 2026 on 21 November at the Barbican as part of Haruki Murakami's Jazz at Peter Cat: A Japanese Jazz Night, will go ahead with the four remaining members: Kosuke Mine - saxophone, Keisuke Nakamura - trumpet, Hakuei Kim - piano, and Tamaya Honda - drums.

Before his passing, Yoshio Suzuki entrusted the following message to the members of THE BLEND: "Each of you is a wonderful musician, capable of carrying on the music and spirit of THE BLEND even without its leader. I’m counting on the four of you!"

We are deeply grateful for Yoshio Suzuki's support for the Festival and for the music he shared throughout his remarkable career. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, fellow musicians and all those who knew and loved him.

Note: Haruki Murakami will not be appearing in the show in person, but has graciously given his blessing for it to take place.

Photo by Philip Arneill from his book Tokyo Jazz Joints

Presented by the Barbican in association with Serious. Produced by Serious