Howard Alden

Emerging as part of the swing revival during the 1980s, Howard Alden stands out as an exceptional guitarist capable of excelling on both electric and acoustic instruments, in addition to having command over the seven-string guitar and the banjo. His musical journey began with performances on banjo alongside Dixieland ensembles in pizza parlors throughout Southern California. Upon obtaining a guitar, Alden pursued instruction under Jimmy Wyble and Howard Roberts. At the age of 18, he took a position at Disneyland, followed by his major professional breakthrough in 1978 alongside Red Norvo. After relocating to New York in 1982, Alden collaborated with numerous esteemed veterans including Ruby Braff, Kenny Davern, Woody Herman, Benny Carter, Monty Alexander, Flip Phillips, and George Van Eps, as well as peers such as Dan Barrett, Warren Vache, and Ken Peplowski. He has made numerous recordings for Concord and contributed to a single project for Stomp Off—a tribute to Harry Reser performed on banjo. Among swing revivalists, Howard Alden ranks among the foremost practitioners while demonstrating sufficient versatility to produce a tribute to Bill Evans.