Eric Alexander

Eric Alexander is an acclaimed American jazz tenor saxophonist known for his warm tone, driving hard bop style, and rich lyricism. Alexander began studying classical music at an early age before concentrating on jazz improvisation at Indiana University and William Paterson College under the guidance of mentors like Harold Mabern.

After making a name for himself in Chicago, he gained international recognition by placing second in the 1991 Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition behind Joshua Redman and ahead of Chris Potter. Since moving to New York City in 1992, Alexander has released over 50 albums as a leader—spanning foundational classics like Man with a Horn to recent releases like Timing Is Everything (2024) and Like Sugar (2025). Beyond his own groups, he has performed and toured the world with jazz legends including Harold Mabern, Pat Martino, and McCoy Tyner, establishing himself as one of the defining tenor voices in modern straight-ahead jazz.