Steve Cardenas
Melodic Texture Specialist
A subtle master of melodic clarity and textural depth, Cardenas is a premier collaborator for jazz legends from Paul Motian to Charlie Haden.
jazzpost-bop
About
Steve Cardenas is a prominent New York-based jazz guitarist and educator. A longstanding member of Paul Motian's Electric Bebop Band and Charlie Haden's Liberation Music Orchestra, he is celebrated for his lyrical approach and subtle, textural presence in both ensemble and leader roles.
Music Style
Cardenas's sound is defined by warm, clean tones and a focus on melodic development. His playing emphasizes harmonic openness and interactive ensemble textures, drawing from post-bop and contemporary jazz.
Background
- Hometown
- Kansas City, MO
- Instruments
- guitar
- Active
- 1980s-present
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Notable Collaborations
Paul MotianCharlie HadenSteve SwallowBen AllisonJohn PatitucciNorah Jones
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Upcoming Events
Past Events
Jam Session. House Band Set - BK Strays play Strayhorn with Will Bernard, Steve Cardenas, Dan Loomis, Diego Voglino
Jun 10
Steve Cardenas with Adam Kolker, Jeremy Stratton, George Schuller
May 29
Apr 19
Apr 19
Apr 18
Apr 18
Steve Cardenas with Adam Kolker, Jeremy Stratton,
Apr 17
Feb 25
Feb 24
Jeremy Udden with Steve Cardenas, Jeremy Stratton, George Schuller
Feb 20
Showing 10 of 13 past events