Instrument(s): Bass, Bass Guitar, Guitar, Piano
City: Washington, DC
Education: University of Maryland, College Park, MD (Fall 2013) • Double Degree: B.A., English Language and Literature; B.A., Jazz Studies, Bass • Studied under Tom Baldwin, Chris Vadala, and Matt Penman
On a quest to save the world through music, Alex is devoted to performing jazz and teaching his students to discover the joy of playing an instrument and all the magic that it brings along. Despite being a bass player by trade, Alex is a very experienced piano, guitar, and voice teacher. He especially enjoys working with beginner students of all ages to help them develop a lifelong curiosity and passion for music.
He received his Bachelor’s of Arts in Jazz Studies and English from University of Maryland studying with Chris Vadala and Tom Baldwin. He has also had the opportunity of working in master classes with Dave Holland, Matt Penman, Joshua Redman, Maria Schneider, Gary Burton, Stefon Harris, and Nicholas Payton.
Alex loves to play for many different audiences and ensembles around the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area including Laissez Foure, M Trane Trio and Uasuf Gueye & Urban Virtuosos. In addition to performing at the Takoma Park Jazz Festival and the DC Jazz Fest, he has performed in many clubs, restaurants, private events, weddings, and recitals. He also records and produces original music at his home studio.
As a teacher Alex remembers what it was like for him to be a young student. He ensures that he treats all his students with unconditional kindness, empathy and respect. He strives to be a musical super hero to kids, showing them that learning music is one of the most important things they can do to make the world a better, more beautiful place. Alex motivates his students to achieve their goals, express themselves, and improve their communication skills, academics and even their self-esteem all through music. He makes learning music easier by making it less like a chore and more like something that is truly fun to do.