Melissa Aldana

Melissa Aldana

Modern Saxophone Virtuoso

A groundbreaking tenor saxophonist, Melissa Aldana blends technical prowess with profound emotional depth, pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz. Her compelling compositions and improvisations offer a fresh voice to the genre.

jazzmodern jazzpost-bop

About

Born in Santiago, Chile, Melissa Aldana is an acclaimed tenor saxophonist and composer. After moving to New York City, she rose to prominence as the first female instrumentalist to win the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 2013, establishing herself as a leading voice in modern jazz.

Music Style

Aldana's music is characterized by her powerful and lyrical tenor saxophone tone, intricate harmonic explorations, and a dynamic improvisational style rooted in the post-bop tradition yet distinctly contemporary.

Background

Hometown
Santiago, Chile
Education
The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music
Instruments
saxophone (tenor)
Active
2010s-present

Similar Artists

If you like Chris Potter, Joe Henderson, and Wayne Shorter — you'll love this artist

Chris Potter
Shares a contemporary approach to the tenor saxophone, emphasizing technical command and harmonic sophistication.
90%
Joe Henderson
Her playing exhibits similar melodic ingenuity, harmonic depth, and a strong rhythmic foundation.
80%
Wayne Shorter
Both artists display a modern, innovative compositional spirit and a highly influential saxophone voice.
75%

Notable Collaborations

Wynton MarsalisChristian McBrideCécile McLorin SalvantShai Maestro
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