Dr. Erika Tazawa named to WSU Department of Music faculty, choral director

Following a nationwide search, Wayne State University's Department of Music is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Erika Tazawa as assistant professor of music and director of choral activities.

A dynamic and versatile musician, Tazawa is widely recognized as a conductor, pianist, and leading advocate for contemporary music.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Erika Tazawa to Detroit," said Dr. Jeffrey Sposato, chair of the Department of Music. "The experience she brings as a champion of new music and as someone who believes fervently in collaboration and social engagement through the arts will, I believe, allow her to create exciting opportunities for our students and to collaborate with a broad range of our faculty."

Tazawa brings a wealth of experience to WSU, previously holding faculty positions at Emory University, Kennesaw State University, and the Georgia Institute of Technology. She prepared choirs for ensembles such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Georgia Philharmonic, and regularly performs with the ASO as a keyboardist.

A passionate educator and collaborator, Tazawa has served on the faculty of the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, and has worked extensively with the Atlanta Opera's educational outreach and new works initiatives as both pianist and music director.

"I am honored to join the distinguished students and faculty at Wayne State University," said Tazawa. "I look forward to connecting with the Detroit community and creating meaningful, innovative musical experiences together."

A sought-after guest conductor, she frequently leads high school honor choirs and choral festivals, and is known for her inspiring work with community and youth choirs across the country. Most recently, she conducted the 2025 Georgia All-State Reading Chorus.

In addition to her academic and conducting work, Tazawa is the pianist for Bent Frequency, an acclaimed contemporary music ensemble celebrated for its bold programming, interdisciplinary collaborations, and commitment to social engagement through the arts.

She is also a recording artist - her solo album of 21st century piano works, titled "Rhythm of Silence," was lauded by Gramophone magazine for its "intelligent programme-building and committed performances [that] warrant serious attention and exposure."

Tazawa holds degrees in piano performance from SUNY Potsdam and a Doctor of Musical Arts in conducting from the University of Georgia.

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