Gunnar Jinmei Linder

Gunnar Jinmei Linder started playing shakuhachi in Japan in 1985, when he studied with Yamaguchi Gorō. He received an MFA as a soloist from Tokyo University of the Arts and was given the title of shihan and the name Jinmei by Yamaguchi. Linder performed and taught professionally in Japan for twenty years before returning to his native Sweden. He now regularly performs and teaches throughout Europe. Linder holds a doctorate in Japanology and works as an associate professor in the field of Japanese studies at Stockholm University, where he actively conducts research, e.g.: Notes on Kinko-ryū Shakuhachi Honkyoku (2011); Deconstructing Tradition in Japanese Music (PhD diss., 2012); Jiuta Sōkyoku Lyrics and Explanations (Christopher Yohmei Blasdel, 2024). He also teaches at the Royal School of Music in Stockholm when a shakuhachi teacher is needed. Linder also has a number of recordings to his credit. In 2016, he was awarded the Japanese Foreign Minister's Award for his cultural and academic activities.