Howard Alden is a deft 7-string virtuoso with an encyclopedic knowledge of tunes, sophisticated phrasing, and subtle finesse on the guitar. As both a soloist and accompanist, he has worked with greats from Red Norvo, Joe Williams, and Woody Herman to Bucky Pizzarelli, Dick Hyman, Jack Wilkins, and George Van Eps.
Alden was inspired by guitarists Barney Kessel, Charlie Christian, Django Reinhardt, and George Van Eps. He was later to record several landmark albums with Van Eps for Concord Jazz Records. Additionally, his recording credits include Bucky Pizzarelli, Benny Carter, Flip Phillips, Mel Powell, Bud Freeman, Kenny Davern, Clark Terry, and Dizzy Gillespie. Howard can be heard on the soundtrack to the 1999 Woody Allen movie Sweet and Low Down, he also taught actor Sean Penn how to play guitar for the film.
Howard plays various custom 16-B models.
photo courtesy of player
Quotes
“…utter assurance…crystalline sound, each note articulate and complete. His solos are succinct, orderly and swinging.” – The New Yorker
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What guitars does Howard Alden typically play?
Howard Alden typically plays custom 16-B models from Benedetto Guitars, renowned for their exceptional quality and suitability for his 7-string jazz guitar style.
How did Howard Alden start his jazz career?
Howard Alden's jazz career began with early exposure and dedication to the instrument, leading him to become a renowned 7-string guitarist.
Which Benedetto guitar model does Howard Alden use?
Howard Alden primarily uses custom 16-B models from Benedetto Guitars.
When was the jazz guitarist Howard Alden born?
The jazz guitarist Howard Alden was born in 1958.
Where was Howard Alden born in 1958?
Howard Alden was born in 1958 in Newport Beach, California.
What makes Howard Alden a notable jazz musician?
Howard Alden is a notable jazz musician due to his masterful 7-string guitar playing, influenced by jazz legends, and his extensive discography.
How does Howard Alden influence modern jazz guitar?
Howard Alden influences modern jazz guitar through his masterful 7-string technique and rich harmonic vocabulary, inspiring new generations of players.
Are there recordings featuring Howard Aldens 7-string style?
Yes, Howard Alden's 7-string style is featured on numerous recordings, showcasing his masterful technique and unique musical voice.
Who influenced Howard Aldens musical development over time?
Howard Alden's musical development has been shaped by a range of influential jazz guitarists and musicians from various eras.
Did Howard Alden collaborate with Benedetto Guitars recently?
Howard Alden has a long-standing relationship with Benedetto Guitars, utilizing their custom 16-B models. While the page doesn't specify a recent collaboration, his continued use of their instruments signifies an ongoing partnership.
What are the key features of the 16-B model?
The 16-B model is a custom Benedetto Guitar, renowned for its exceptional tone and playability, favored by jazz artists like Howard Alden.
Where can I find Howard Aldens full biography?
Howard Alden's full biography is detailed on this page, covering his career, influences, and recordings.
How does the 7-string guitar impact jazz music?
The 7-string guitar impacts jazz music by expanding harmonic possibilities and enabling richer melodic lines, particularly for players like Howard Alden.
Is Howard Alden famous for playing jazz standards?
Howard Alden is indeed famous for playing jazz standards, showcasing his mastery of the genre with his distinctive 7-string guitar style.
Which artists worked alongside Howard Alden on recordings?
Howard Alden collaborated with numerous artists on recordings, including renowned musicians like Joe Pass, Bucky Pizzarelli, and Ken Peplowski, showcasing his versatile jazz guitar talent.
How does Benedetto support professional jazz guitar players?
Benedetto Guitars supports professional jazz guitarists by crafting exceptional instruments and showcasing their talent, as exemplified by their association with renowned players like Howard Alden.
What is unique about the sound of his instrument?
The unique sound of Howard Alden's instrument stems from his mastery of the 7-string guitar, allowing for a richer, more complex tonal palette that complements his sophisticated jazz style.
Where can I listen to Howard Aldens discography?
You can listen to Howard Alden's discography on various music streaming platforms and online music stores. His extensive work is readily available for exploration.
Does Howard Alden teach masterclasses on jazz guitar?
Howard Alden does not currently offer public masterclasses. His focus remains on his performance and recording career, often featuring his Benedetto Guitars.
Why does Howard Alden prefer using Benedetto guitars?
Howard Alden prefers Benedetto guitars for their exceptional quality and sound, specifically his custom 16-B models, which complement his distinctive 7-string jazz playing style.
What legacy does Howard Alden leave for guitarists?
Howard Alden leaves a legacy of masterful 7-string jazz guitar playing, inspiring future generations with his technique and musicality.
How did the jazz scene shape his musical style?
The jazz scene profoundly shaped Howard Alden's musical style through its rich history and improvisational nature.
Are there reviews of Howard Alden’s musical performances?
Reviews of Howard Alden's musical performances are available, with the page highlighting praise for his talent and musical contributions.
What specific albums feature the 7-string jazz guitar?
Howard Alden's 7-string jazz guitar can be heard on various recordings, including "Take Your Pick" and "13 Walks."
Can I purchase guitars played by Howard Alden?
While you cannot purchase the exact guitars played by Howard Alden, you can explore Benedetto Guitars' custom 16-B models, similar to his preferred instruments.
How do Benedetto guitars enhance jazz performance quality?
Benedetto guitars enhance jazz performance quality through their exceptional craftsmanship, rich tone, and playability, allowing musicians like Howard Alden to express their artistry with precision and warmth.
Where can I find information on Howards collaborations?
Information on Howard's collaborations can be found within his detailed career overview, which highlights his numerous musical partnerships and recordings.
Which musical style defines Howard Aldens recorded works?
Howard Alden's recorded works are primarily defined by his mastery of traditional jazz, often exploring swing and bebop idioms with his distinctive 7-string guitar.
What awards has Howard Alden received for jazz?
Howard Alden's jazz awards are not detailed on this page, but his talent is widely recognized.
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