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Nathan Tokunaga
Nathan Tokunaga
/toh-koo-naa-guh/
About Me
Nathan Tokunaga is a clarinetist and saxophonist from the San Francisco Bay Area, known for his soulful sound and joyful virtuosity. Inspired by early jazz and constantly exploring new musical horizons, he brings energy and artistry to every performance. Nathan has played hundreds of concerts across the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, and North Carolina, captivating audiences in dance halls, festivals, live streams, private events, and more.
Bandleader of
Nathan's Fearless Five
(high school band)
Nathan Tokunaga Duo—Quintet
(professional band)
Big Bands & Orchestra
Stanford Jazz Miles Ahead Big Band, lead alto
Kyle Athayde Dance Party
Alex Mendham Orchestra
Gunhild Carling Big Band
Lindy Focus Big Bands
Stanford Jazz Orchestra
College of San Mateo Big Band
JALC SJA Clark Terry Big Band
Peninsula Youth Orchestra, principal clarinet
Awards & Honors
Essentially Ellington 2025
San Jose Jazz Commissions Award
JALC Summer Jazz Academy
Stanford Jazz lifetime Shape of Jazz to Come
Stanford Jazz Outstanding Soloist
Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship
CMEA Solos and Ensembles, Superior
Festivals
Caramoor Jazz Festival, NY
Healdsburg Jazz Festival
Monterey Jazz Bash by the Bay
San Diego Jazz Festival
Jazzaffair, Three Rivers
Hot Jazz Jubilee, Sacramento
Jazz on the Hill Festival, San Mateo