Masaru Imada is an acclaimed Japanese jazz pianist and composer whose career spans several decades, marked by a profound commitment to the evolution of jazz in Japan. Born on March 21, 1932, in Tokyo, Imada began playing piano at a young age and developed an interest in jazz during his high school years. He honed his skills at the nightclub scene in post-war Tokyo and emerged as a prominent figure in the jazz world, especially during the 1960s and 1970s when the genre was flourishing in Japan.

A true stalwart of the Japanese jazz community, Imada is known for his lyrical and sophisticated playing style that combines traditional jazz elements with a distinct sense of Japanese musical aesthetics. His discography includes a broad spectrum of compositions, from original works to jazz standards reinterpreted with his unique flair. Among his impressive body of work, albums like "Andalusian Breeze" (アンダルシアの風) and "Carnival of Melancholy" (哀愁のカーニヴァル) showcase his skillful blending of emotional depth and technical precision. His recent releases, including remastered editions of his classic records, continue to captivate new listeners while satisfying the longtime fans of his soulful and introspective approach to jazz. Masaru Imada's enduring legacy is evident in the esteem he holds among jazz aficionados and his influence on succeeding generations of jazz musicians in Japan and beyond.