Alex Brown
Biography
Setting the tone for the second decade of the 21st century, pianist Alex Brown kicked it off with a feature article in the January 2010 issue of Keyboard Magazine. His reputation continues expanding via his notable performances with everyone from innovative saxophonist Miguel Zenon to the legendary Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. A member of Paquito D'Rivera's ensemble since 2007, he shared in that ensemble's 2010 Grammy nomination for D'Rivera's album, Jazz-Clazz. Of Brown's 2010 debut CD with his own ensemble, Pianist (Sunnyside), DownBeat magazine proclaimed it "A really fine record that leaves you wanting more." This just a year after his 2009 graduation with a Bachelor of Music from New England Conservatory where he studied with Danilo Perez and Charlie Banacos, among others. Due to his diverse influences, Classical, rhythm & blues, hip-hop, Afro-Caribbean and Brazilian styles all co-mingle – naturally and infectiously – in Brown's music. Doubtlessly, this versatility contributed to his collecting an array of student and young composer awards from ASCAP, DownBeat Magazine and BMI, propelling him towards a professional career. Now in Alex Brown's rear-view mirror are appearances at top jazz venues and festivals, including: Jazz at Lincoln Center's Rose Theater, Birdland, and the Blue Note in New York (and Tokyo), Blues Alley in Washington DC, the Telluride Jazz Celebration and Israel's Red Sea Jazz Festival. Alex Brown is a Yamaha Artist.