Kohei Yamaguchi
Principal Bass
Prior to joining the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra as principal bassist, Kohei was a member of the double bass section in the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra and toured Japan with the 2015, 2016, and 2017 Pacific Music Festival Orchestra playing under the direction of music director and conductor, Valery Gergiev. His most recent memorable performances include being a member of the Yale University School of Music’s Yale in New York concert series at Carnegie Hall for which he performed in chamber ensemble arrangements of Bruckner’s 7th Symphony and Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale.
Kohei earned his B.M. in Double Bass Performance from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance studying under Diana Gannett and Stephen Molina and his M.M. and M.M.A. from the Yale University School of Music studying under Donald Palma. He currently lives in New Haven with his partner, Winona, and three dogs.
Hidden talent(s): Used to play baseball and can switch-hit.
Favorite musical memory:Every time my parents attend my concerts. Before the performance begins I try to find where in the audience they are sitting.
Favorite Motto or Quote:“Clover, stop eating the grass.” (Clover is one of my dogs. She likes eating grass.Not really a favorite quote- I just end up having to say it a lot.)
Favorite Composer:Liszt and Chopin. For non-classical, Honne. Lo-fi music for relaxing.
What/Who inspired you to take up your instrument:My dad played electric bass in a rock band when he was in high school and he suggested I try learning bass when my elementary school offered string instrument classes..