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Melissa Aldana Trio
Jazz Coterie concert series presents Grammy-nominated saxophonist Melissa Aldana.
Grammy-nominated tenor saxophonist, composer, and Blue Note recording artist Melissa Aldana is internationally recognized for her profound musicality, fearless improvisation, and deeply personal storytelling. Born in Santiago, Chile, in 1988, Aldana grew up in a family of musicians and began performing professionally as a teenager under the guidance of her father, renowned saxophonist Marcos Aldana. Influenced by Sonny Rollins, Wayne Shorter, and Mark Turner, she has developed a distinct voice that balances jazz tradition with bold innovation.
“Melissa Aldana’s music journey has been sprinkled with stardust.”
“Her music unfolds like a film score, quietly intense, with restraint and deliberation.”
In 2009, Aldana moved to the United States to attend the Berklee College of Music, studying with George Garzone, Joe Lovano, and Greg Osby. Her artistry quickly gained international attention when, in 2013, she became the first female instrumentalist and first South American to win the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition—a historic milestone that launched her onto the global stage.
“She has a warming effect like a mother spreading a blanket over a sleeping child.”
“A remarkable tenor sound, smoky yet quicksilver fluid.”
As a leader, Aldana has released seven critically acclaimed albums, including Free Fall (2010), Second Cycle (2012), Melissa Aldana & Crash Trio (2014), Back Home (2016), Visions (2019), 12 Stars (2022), and Echoes of the Inner Prophet (2024). Her two most recent projects, both on Blue Note Records, solidify her reputation as one of the defining voices of her generation.
Co-produced with guitarist Lage Lund, Echoes of the Inner Prophet is a powerful and introspective album exploring spirituality, intuition, and identity. Featuring original compositions—including a tribute to Wayne Shorter—the record showcases Aldana’s signature blend of lyrical expression, technical command, and emotional depth.
“One of the most arresting voices in contemporary jazz, rising from the vibrant Santiago music scene to the world’s major jazz venues.”
Aldana continues to perform and teach around the world, appearing at major festivals, jazz clubs, and universities. Her music embodies a fearless spirit and visionary creativity that bridges past, present, and future in contemporary jazz.
“Aldana is an emotionally arresting player who balances vulnerability and victory; her horn at once looses whispery confessions and purposeful statements of strength and resolve.”