Alex Clarke, Sax, with Terry Hutchins Qrt

Jazz@PJC is really excited to have Alex come and perform at our club. As a finalist in the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year 2020, winner of the Rising Star category in the 2019 British Jazz Awards and nominee in the Parliamentary Jazz Awards 2021 & 2022, Alex is known to be one of the most in-demand and versatile saxophonists to have emerged on the British jazz scene.

Praised for her intelligent ear for harmony and a deep knowledge of repertoire across a broad spectrum of styles, Alex's sound is steeped in the tradition of bebop. Her total respect for the heritage of the music can be heard in a fiery, melodic approach inspired by the likes of Phil Woods, Cannonball Adderley and Vincent Herring.

In summer 2022, she released her quartet's latest album “Only A Year”, which features some of the UK’s finest musicians: David Newton, Dave Green and Clark Tracey. Since then, the Alex Clarke Quartet have gone on to make numerous appearances at jazz clubs and festivals such as Peggy's Skylight, Southport Jazz Festival and Scarborough Jazz Festival.

As well as working as a bandleader, Alex performs alongside many notable names such as Alan Barnes, Bruce Adams and Art Themen, and has worked with prestigious big bands such as The Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra and The Simon Spillett Big Band. She is also a member of The Clark Tracey Quintet, who have an upcoming CD release and tour in 

Spring 2024.

Outside of jazz, Alex has had much experience playing a variety of music from Ska and Motown, to folk and prog rock. She is equally comfortable working alongside DJs for private and corporate functions. As a session musician, Alex has recorded for projects ranging from folk to Northern soul, including sessions at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London.

As an educator, Alex worked at Warwick School for 3 years as their Music Assistant, as well as tutoring for organisations such as The National Youth Jazz Collective at workshops, Summer Schools and Saxophone Days across the country. She is also available for private tuition online, and in person in the Warwickshire area.

Alex is proud to be an official Vandoren Artist, using their reeds and accessories across all horns.