Masaaki Hiyama (日山 正明, born Aki Masa, September 2, 1959) is a Japanese jazz drummer[1] that participated in some of Japan's more well known fusion bands. He is a former member of Casiopea.
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1979: Joined a fusion group called “Guitarist Creek”, they participated in Cross-Wind (A large fusion concert also known as East-West). Masaaki met Casiopea at this time. They became good friends. He also met Hidehiko Matsumoto and his group of participants. As well as, jazz vocalist, Henri Kanno, Mikio Masuda jazz pianist and jazz groups to participate in activities in this field.
In 1990, Tetsuo Sakurai Akira Jimbo left Casiopea for their separate career in Jimsaku. Yoshihiro Naruse joined Casiopea at this time and Masaaki Hiyama was called to join the group as well because they were missing a drummer. Being a long-time friend of Casiopea, he accepted the offer and took the drummer seat. Casiopea were amazed that Masaaki was able to match the skill of Akira Jimbo and perform their songs.
In August 1992, Masaaki resigned from Casiopea due to health issues because of his smoking habit. At the time of his ill health, drumming was considered a risky decision, so he decided to stop until he recuperated. Masaaki recorded a total of four albums with Casiopea.
After recuperating, he returned to the field of jazz. He was in good health, the doctors were thrilled by his recovery and considered him a very strong fighter. The members of Casiopea were glad when they heard he had recovered successfully. Sadly, he was not accepted back into Casiopea because they had already found a replacement drummer, so he decided to look elsewhere to put his talents to use. He joined a music school that is dedicated to teaching youth the skills they need for a music career.
Today, Masaaki participates in both rock and jazz fields in his drum project along with band members. He still maintains a very good relationship with Casiopea, especially Yoshihiro Naruse. Masaaki’s Fans consider him to have a sweet and humble personality. Hiyama will always be remembered for his contributions. His nickname is “the godfather” as given to him by Yoshihiro Naruse.
