Mark Izu, has died, a bassist, sho player, composer, and a major performing artist of San Francisco’s Asian American music world. His legacy is huge. Mark’s works for film, dance and jazz will be treasured fir their unique voice. Surrounded by family and friends he died peacefully Jan. 12, 2025 from colon cancer, which he battled bravely for two years.

Mark Izu a Japanese American sansei was born in 1951, the son of Yamato Douglas Izu abd Susie Mary Nakagawa in Vallejo, California and the second of three brothers.

He was a 26 year disciple of Togi Suenobu, a court musician of the Japanese Imperial Household, studying and mastering the the ancient sho (sheng in Chin.) and composing new works for the ancient instrument. Mark played with taiko musician Kenny Endo and Chinese musician Liu Qi-chao. He performed with the late great tabla master Zakir Hussain. He wrote compositions for symphony orchestra conducted by Kent Nagano.

Mark Izu organized the first Asian American Jazz Festiva (AAJF) in 1981. He directed the festival from 1985 to 2000.

For decades he collaborated and accompanied noted musicians Jon Jang, Anthony Brown, Mas Koga and saxophonist Francis Wong, all famous and accomplished artists in their own right.

Mark Izu was commissioned to write the score for for the newly restored 1919 silent film the Dragon Painter starring Sessue Hayakawa.

Described as a visionary artist Mark was part of the first generation of Asian American jazz artists that were inspired by the Black struggle against racism and social injustice.

Mark’s music fused rare ancient traditional Asian music with the hot jazz of today. His work has always reflected the Asian American struggle for acceptance and understanding.

With his brooding good looks he created a magnetic onstage presence.

Tributes and testimonials have been pouring in expressing shock and dismay.

I will miss our times together discussing art and music, the camaraderie and repartee. Our favorite new music our favorite diner, stories and gossip from past and present.

Mark Izu is survived by his wife Brenda Wong Aoki, son Kai Kane Aoki Izu of Boston and a new granddaughter, brothers David and Tom Izu. A celebration of life is being planned.