"Shimada is one of the most original and creative musicians on the Seattle scene." 

- Seattle  Times

I have 20 years of experience writing and performing music, and I have produced four full-length albums, as well as three other albums produced by other labels, totaling seven full-length CDs.

I also worked as a teacher for almost 20 years, and have a master's degree in Higher Education, Speech Communication, and Women's Studies. 

Later, I earned a certificate in Applied Kinesiology I and II, and also became a Master Reiki practitioner. I am a certified Life Coach, having taken the Demartini Method Breakthrough program and studied multiple alternative health modalities, including Mindfulness, Mind/Body Health, Qi Gong, Nervous System Rewiring methods, and more. 

During my music years, I played in many venues and gave numerous interviews to newspapers and radio stations while I lived in Seattle. I have toured nationally, and collaborated with musicians of my dreams! I have learned over the years many things about being a musician whose music was always difficult to categorize. Although I was often described as a "singer/songwriter", I had the opportunity to play with jazz, rock, pop, classical, folk, and experimental musicians and more. 

Having accomplished all that during my 20 years of music "career," and now in my early 60s, I've come to realize how much I can offer young aspiring musicians on multiple levels. Because of my openness to all styles, including 'genres' like noise and experimental, I find a way to relate to pretty much anybody, because I listen to music first and foremost as music, with 'genre' as at most a superficial guide.

Although I love working as a music producer, I primarily work as a mentor and life coach, helping musicians and artists with aspects they struggle with or could be paying more attention to, to develop their sense of direction and unique style, voice, and sound. 

I'm also here to guide them through life's struggles, including self-doubt, procrastination, and wise decision-making, and offer a more holistic approach so they can navigate their journey more effectively. 

If people need more practical help, I can point out what might be needed to enhance the quality of the recording they are working on and help bring to light the many hidden details that may initially seem unimportant but are crucial. 

Call it a humble brag, but to me, not all experienced musicians and artists have these skills. I'm a born teacher, and I approach things from a holistic perspective, considering and thinking about them in a comprehensive manner. I have a very good set of ears and am very intuitive. If something does not sound right, be it in your recording, a performance, the way you practice your music, or your general approach to life and things, I'm able to spot it and give you useful advice or suggestions. 

I'm not rich and famous, but I stuck with my own sound, and I ended up connecting with musicians whom I respected so much. And this is what I want to help you with - how to stay real and honest with yourself and allow yourself and your music to flow out of you. This connects you with the right people and places. In the end, you'll be so happy that you've shared your unique sound and expression with the world.

Check out "What I can offer" for service details. 

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