Keita Ogawa

Hailing originally from Nagasaki, Japan, Keita Ogawa is multi Grammy nominees and Grammy Award winner and one of the most versatile and sought-after percussionist and drummer in New York City.He started his music career on drum set at the age of 15.After performing regularly in Tokyo for several years, Keita decided to pursue his musical studies overseas. He was accepted into the prestigious Berklee College of Music in fall of 2005 where he studied with legendary musicians and educators Manuel “Egui” Castrillo, Jamey Haddad, Tito De Gracia, David Rosado, and Mark Walker. Seeking full immersion into the world of Brazilian percussion, Keita relocated to Rio de Janeiro for 3 months and studied with the some of the country's most respected musicians- Jorginho do Pandeiro, Celsinho Silva, Kiko Freitas, and Marcio Bahia among others.Since his arrival in America, Keita has worked with some of the biggest names in modern music including Yo-yo-ma, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Assad Brothers, Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra, Clarice Assad, Jaques Morelenbaum, Osvaldo Golijov, Les Nubians, Charlie Hunter, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra and more.
He is member of Snarky Puppy, Bokanté and Banda Magda.

In 2016 He wrote opening Theme for National TV Program in Japan. Program Called “Hodo Station”.

In 2017 He became the Ambassador of Tourism of his Hometown, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan.

In 2022 He received a Civic Honor Award from his hometown Sasebo city, Nagasaki Japan.

He is endorsed by Canopus Drum, Meinl Percussion, Meinl Cymbal, Vic Firth, Evans Drumhead, Cooperman Company, Dem Sticks, Parka Percussion and Decora 43.

Keita can virtually play any percussion instrument and musical style with fluency and unparalleled musicality. Despite his youth, he has set an example for the next generation of world-class musicians. Keita's passion for crossing musical borders and uniting differences in cultures is a rare talent which he exhibits with a smile and an open heart.