Last week, Grade 9 student, Linkstone Mori, stepped onto a national stage, appearing on NHK E's Numa ni Hamatte Kiitemita, a popular Japanese educational television program that highlights the unique hobbies, passions, and talents of teenagers across Japan. For Linkstone, that passion is music, and more specifically, the saxophone.
Linkstone’s musical journey began at the age of 10, but his relationship with music started even earlier. “I used to sing from around four years old,” he shared over an interview. While performing as a young singer in the gospel choir, a producer noticed something special and suggested he try the saxophone. That moment sparked a path that has since grown into a deep commitment to jazz, composition, and performance.
Today, Linkstone practices around two hours every day, (and that is on top of an hour of swimming every morning to help strengthen his lungs), carefully balancing schoolwork, rehearsals, and rest. While his schedule is demanding, he describes music not as a burden, but as something he genuinely enjoys. “It’s not really hard for me,” he explains. “It’s just fun. I love practicing.” That enjoyment has helped him build steady habits over time, showing up consistently and putting in the work even when there is no audience.
While Linkstone initially gravitated toward pop music, his interest gradually led him to explore other genres, including jazz, fusion, and R&B. As his listening widened, so did the ways he began to express himself through music. One of his favorite songs is “If I Ain’t Got You,” and alongside listening and performing, he also enjoys composing his own R&B music, using it as another outlet for creativity and expression. By exploring other genres, he pushes himself to think differently about melody, rhythm and emotion.
Collaboration with other musicians has been a key part of his growth. In addition to school ensembles, Linkstone plays in a youth jazz orchestra made up of students from across Japan. His NHK appearance took that experience a step further, as he met two fellow teenage musicians for the first time on the day of filming and performed with them in a single take, without rehearsal. “I was very nervous,” he admits. “It was basically one take.” In that moment, the performance depended on careful listening, trust, and adaptability, skills Linkstone continues to develop through music and everyday life at CA.
Linkstone is quick to acknowledge the support systems that have helped him along the way. He credits his mother for encouraging him to try new things, even when he was hesitant. He highlighted the impact of his teachers, particularly Mr. Melton, who recognized his ability and his fear of performing alone and invited him to perform with him. “Mr. Melton was the first person to give me an opportunity to play in front of the CA community,” Linkstone says, reflecting the compassion and belief educators show in nurturing student talent.
That support has extended beyond performance opportunities. Teachers have worked with him to balance academics and music commitments, helping him catch up when rehearsals or performances take him off campus. This flexibility has allowed Linkstone to pursue ambitious opportunities without losing sight of his learning.
Most recently, those opportunities have expanded internationally. In addition to his NHK appearance, Linkstone was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to attend a five-week summer performance program at Berklee College of Music which is a milestone that brings him closer to his dream of studying at Berklee full-time and pursuing music as a career. “I want to play in big halls and arenas, maybe even a backing saxophonist for big artists” he says, “and someday, I want to win a Grammy.”
For Linkstone, music is ultimately about connection. “Music doesn’t have language barriers,” he explains. “I can play with anyone, anywhere.” It’s a belief shaped by years of listening, learning, and performing alongside others, and one that reflects the spirit of curiosity and openness he experiences at Canadian Academy. When asked what advice he would give to other students, his response is simple, yet powerful: “Instead of comparing yourself to others, compare yourself to yourself, and try to become the best version of yourself.” As Linkstone continues to explore new sounds and step onto new stages, he does so with confidence, purpose, and the support of a community that encourages students to pursue their passions and grow into who they are meant to be.