Kenji Harada

Kenji Harada is a versatile pianist with roots in the diverse musical soundscape of Detroit. Beginning piano studies at five years old, Kenji found his stride accompanying for church at the age of thirteen, an experience that infused his music with the soulful sound of southern gospel.

Immersed in the musical heritage of his hometown, Kenji's style is a reflection of the many sounds he heard while growing up. From Motown to gospel, and everything from country to hip-hop — the influences of legends like Whitney Houston, Garth Brooks, The Supremes, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, and Michael Jackson can be heard in his playing. This mix of genres has become the hallmark of Kenji's personal style.

His professional journey as a music director began in the Hawai’i theatre scene, where he honed his craft on an extensive list of theatrical productions. This period was instrumental in preparing him for when he would be asked to go on his first national tour as the associate music director of “The Music Man” — a milestone that later served as a springboard for other opportunities.

Upon returning to Hawai’i, Kenji continued to broaden the artistic scope of his work. He took on a collaborative endeavor with Mahi’ai Kekumu of Broadway prestige and local fame. Together, they produced a night of musical entertainment for the American Cancer Society’s Hope Gala that was touching, energizing, and uplifting. Simultaneously, he also found himself taking a deep dive into the world of Latin music playing keys for Afro-Criollo Sound — every step on Kenji’s journey has shown his versatility as an artist and passion for diverse musical expressions.

After moving to San Francisco, Kenji found himself working with Berkeley Repertory Theatre. First as the associate music director on the world premiere of “Paradise Square,” next as the music director for “Kiss My Aztec’s” world premier. The Bay Area not only broadened his horizons but also led to a creative partnership with singer/songwriter Eli DeYoe. Together, they have produced a series of singles that showcase their synergistic creativity in the studio, and recently celebrated the release of Eli’s debut album The Start Of Forever.

Kenji’s partnership with Eli has also led to a foray into producing music videos, opening yet another chapter in his expanding narrative. Among these pursuits, Kenji takes particular pride in their most recent accomplishment — producing the music video for Eli’s lead single Breathe.

You can find Kenji all over the Bay Area — music directing at a local theatre, adding his flair to a pit orchestra, or in his home studio producing music with local artists.