Gunnar Jinmei Linder began studying shakuhachi in Japan in 1985 under the guidance of Yamaguchi Gorō (1933–99), who was the head of the guild Kinko-ryū Shakuhachi Chikumeisha and designated Living National Treasure in 1992.
Linder obtained an MA degree as a soloist from the Conservatory of Traditional Music at Tokyo National University of the Arts. He was awarded the traditional title shihan and the name Jinmei from Yamaguchi Gorō. Linder worked as performer and shakuhachi teacher in Japan for twenty years before returning to his native Sweden. He now performs and teaches regularly throughout Europe.
Linder is Associate Professor in Japanese language and culture at Stockholm University, where his research focuses on pre-modern performing arts, particularly music from the 17th to the 19th century. In addition, he is also part-time Associate Professor in shakuhachi at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm. Apart from teaching and performing shakuhachi, Linder is presently involved in several major research projects relating to shakuhachi and traditional ensemble music (sankyoku). The book Jiuta Sōkyoku Lyrics and Explanations: Songs of the Floating World, in cooperation with Christopher Yohmei Blasdel, published on May 9, 2024 from Routledge, London. Another project, in cooperation with Kiku Day, is an anthology on the shakuhachi (to be published by Routledge, London, date t.b.a.). Among other writings, Linder also published an instruction book on advanced performance techniques of Kinko-ryū honkyoku in 2011 (Notes on Kinko-ryū Shakuhachi Honkyoku …).
In 2016 Linder was awarded the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for his cultural and academic activities promoting Japanese culture.