Japanese jazz pianist Chihiro Yamanaka performs with her trio at Dizzy’s on April 9. One of Verve Records’ leading lights, the prolific Yamanaka has released 17 albums since 2001, each a wonderful display of her sense of melody and lyrical, virtuoso playing. Her music has a cinematic feel with perhaps an occasional touch of Bacharach or Guaraldi in the notes, but Yamanaka’s songs — as well as performances —?will leave you breathless. It’s been reported that jazz has been in a downward spiral for a few decades now. Indeed, show attendances and album sales have been down. But with new talent like this performing on the world’s stages, there’s not only hope but reason to rejoice.
•?CHIRIHO YAMANAKA performs at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9 at DIZZY’S, 4275 Mission Bay Drive. $20. www.dizzysjazz.com.