Guitarist/Composer Kenichi Doami was born in Yamaguchi, Japan. After being inspired by rock guitarist Edward Van Halen and Steve Vai, Kenichi started teaching himself how to play the guitar. Kenichi excelled at the guitar rapidly and was accepted to Koyo Conservatory in Kobe, Japan after playing for two years.
In 1999, Kenichi was awarded a scholarship from Berklee College of Music, and he moved to the United States to attend the world-renowned music school. Kenichi performed constantly at Berklee with the college's most talented musicians, including Walter Smith lll (Roy Haynes Band/Ralph Peterson Band) and Hiromi (Telarc Recording Artist). Hiromi says "The sound of Kenichi combines darkness and intelligence and is very unique, it makes you travel." Kenichi also studied with some of Berklee's most well-known instructors, including Mick Goodrick, Jon Damian, Rick Peckham, Hal Crook, and Wayne Krantz. Krantz says "Kenichi is one of the most dedicated, conscientious musicians I've ever come across in my time at Berklee. His devotion to music has been an inspiration to not only his fellow students but also professional associates." While attending Berklee, Kenichi developed a strong passion for contemporary jazz that strongly impacted his playing and composing style.
In April of 2004, Kenichi finished recording with saxophonist Walter Smith lll, bassist Motohito Fukushima, and drummer Ziv Ravitz. "His recent recording suggests that he has begun to define his own artistic territory and vision." Krantz says.
In 2005, Kenichi was selected as one of the semi-finalists for the Gibson Montreux Jazz Guitar Competition in Switzerland, the president of the jury was Al di Meola.
In 2006, Kenichi composed, produced, and played guitar on all 8 tracks of his debut album entitled CHRONICLE. Joining him in this creation are saxophonist Donny McCaslin, bassist Motohito Fukushima, and drummer Ari Hoenig.
Kenichi currently is based in New York City, where he continues to play and write his unique brand of contemporary jazz.
