Saxophone player Alex Madeline will release his debut album, “Unexpected Direction,” on June 14. The first single off the album, titled “Balance,” was released earlier this year. Madeline — known for seamlessly blending American jazz with French flair — began his musical journey at the age of 9 and he discovered the saxophone at 14.
And now, with over 17 years of experience, his passion is felt in every note. His formal education at the renowned Caen and Versailles Conservatories laid the foundation for a career that has seen him collaborate with famous musicians such as Terrence Blanchard, Jon Clayton and the legendary Bob James. Madeline’s journey includes receiving a European scholarship that led to enrollment at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2013 where he studied with George Garzone, Bill Pierce and Hal Crook.
His eclectic style, seamlessly blending jazz and classical influences has captivated audiences from Carnegie Hall in NYC to the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Notable achievements include the prestigious Paul Wagner Award in 2015 and performing at festivals worldwide.
Reflecting on his favorite show at “Culture Lab in 2022,” where he introduced his new project, the “Unexpected Direction,” Madeline fondly recalls receiving the New Work Grant from the Queens Council on the Arts. This grant enabled him to bring his full band on stage, including strings, and opened the door to new oppor.
