A multi-instrumentalist specializing in the performance and education of contemporary
improvisational music, Steve Alford began his career as a saxophone graduate of the
studio music and jazz program from the Frost School of Music at the University of
Miami in the 1990s.
Credentials
- Taught Modern Jazz and Improvisation at both Mars Hill University and UNC Asheville.
- Developed a new contemporary music pedagogy focusing on multi-lateral ear training, multi-instrumental rhythm section methods class, "mind's ear" sonic exploration and melodic immersion.
- Served as Coordinator for Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation Studies at the University of Minnesota Morris, bringing his curriculum of modern multi-genre improvisation study grounded in traditional jazz roots to the University of Minnesota system.
Career Highlights
- Composed, produced and recorded his most adventurous music to date, including his acclaimed 11 piece modern big band, the multi-genre improvisation-based collective known as Rational Discourse, the E.Normus Trio (an alto clarinet, N/S Stick, and drums trio within the punk-jazz genre), his quintet METAL (two trash can drum systems, two double bassists, and himself on electrified contra-alto clarinet and electrified english horn), and his new standards jazz trio and quartets, each re-imagining small group jazz through an open and free approach to harmony while remaining grounded in tradition.
- Appeared regularly on both saxophone and bass clarinet in the straight-ahead jazz, modern improvised music, and experimental indy-rock scenes across the midwest.
Education
M.M. JazzUniversity of Tennessee
B.M. SaxophoneUniversity of Miami