One great jazz guitarist known for chord melody is Howard Alden. He was born on February 10, 1958, in Newport Beach, California, and began playing the guitar at the age of nine. Alden is considered one of the leading jazz guitarists of his generation and has collaborated with many legendary jazz musicians such as Benny Carter, Benny Goodman, and George Van Eps.
Alden has a unique style of playing, incorporating fingerstyle techniques and advanced chord voicings. He is known for his ability to create complex and intricate arrangements, often using a single guitar to emulate the sounds of a full ensemble. This style of playing is commonly referred to as “chord melody” and is considered a hallmark of Alden’s musical output.
Alden’s musical output has been widely acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. He has received numerous accolades and awards, including five Grammy nominations. In addition to his solo work, Alden has collaborated with several jazz ensembles and orchestras, including the Benny Carter All-Stars and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band.
Alden has also been an educator, teaching guitar and jazz studies at several institutions, including the New England Conservatory of Music and the Manhattan School of Music. He has also released several instructional materials and recorded a number of instructional videos that have been widely used by aspiring jazz guitarists.
In conclusion, Howard Alden is a great jazz guitarist known for his chord melody playing style. With a career spanning several decades, Alden has made a significant contribution to the world of jazz guitar and is widely recognized as one of the leading jazz guitarists of his generation.
Sources:
