Written by: Fatima Ahmed

Howard Alden: The Virtuosic Jazz Guitarist

Howard Alden is renowned for his incredible mastery of the seven-string guitar, an instrument he has woven into the fabric of jazz music. With a career spanning over four decades, Alden has established himself as one of the most versatile and accomplished jazz guitarists of our time.

Early Life and Influences

Born on October 17, 1958, in Newport Beach, California, Alden grew up in Huntington Beach, where he was exposed to a diverse range of musical influences. He began playing the piano, harmonica, and four-string tenor guitar at a young age, before discovering his true calling – the six-string guitar.

It was the recordings of jazz guitar greats like Barney Kessel, Charlie Christian, and Django Reinhardt that inspired Alden to teach himself to play. As a teenager, he honed his skills playing at local venues in the Los Angeles area, before studying guitar with Jimmy Wyble at the age of 16.

Career Highlights and Collaborations

Alden's professional career took off in the summer of 1979, when he made his first trip to the East Coast, playing in a trio led by vibraphonist Red Norvo at Resorts International in Atlantic City. This stint was followed by a move to New York City in 1982, where he played an extended engagement at the Café Carlyle with jazz pianist-songwriter Joe Bushkin.

It was during this period that Alden was discovered by jazz legends Joe Williams and Woody Herman, leading to collaborations with some of the biggest names in jazz. In 1983, he appeared alongside Dick Hyman at Eubie Blake's 100th birthday concert, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the jazz world.

The Alden-Barrett Quintet and Beyond

In 1985, Alden formed the Alden-Barrett Quintet with Dan Barrett, a group that would go on to play a significant role in shaping the swing idiom. This partnership was followed by collaborations with Ruby Braff, Kenny Davern, and Jack Lesberg, solidifying Alden's position as a sought-after guitarist.

In 1992, Alden made the switch to the seven-string guitar, an instrument that would become synonymous with his unique sound. His partnership with George Van Eps, the innovator of the seven-string guitar, led to the recording of several critically acclaimed albums.

Legacy and Influence

Throughout his career, Alden has been recognized for his contributions to jazz, including his work on the soundtrack of the Woody Allen film "Sweet and Lowdown." His virtuosic playing style, characterized by its lyrical beauty and technical mastery, has inspired a new generation of jazz guitarists.

Alden's influence extends beyond the jazz world, with his music appealing to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. His dedication to preserving the tradition of jazz, while pushing its boundaries, has earned him a place among the pantheon of jazz greats.

• Notable Awards and Honors: Alden has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Concord Jazz Award.
• Discography: Alden has recorded numerous albums for Concord Records, including four with George Van Eps.
• Inspirational Quotes: "Jazz is a language, and like any language, it has its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. The more you learn, the more you realize how little you know."