Alex Bugnon has been a visible and energetic force on the contemporary jazz music scene for nearly three decades as a world-renowned musician, composer, and bandleader.

Bugnon grew up in the picturesque town of Caux, Switzerland, only a few miles away from the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival. Relationships with some of music’s most illustrious names, like uncle legendary Donald Byrd, and an early friendship with Herbie Hancock, no doubt played a role in his decision to pursue a musical career.

Bugnon trained at the Paris Conservatory, followed by Berklee College of Music. It was here in the United States that his exposure to a diversity of musical styles, from R&B and gospel to jazz and funk, began to shape and influence his personal sound. Shortly after moving to New York City, Alex began touring with numerous R&B artists, including Melba Moore, Freddie Jackson, Patti Austin, James Ingram, and Glenn Jones. But it was his encounter with saxophonist Najee that ultimately changed his course and resulted in his first recording contract.

His first album, Love Season (1989) catapulted the virtual unknown to prominence and set him on his musical course. The album rocketed to number 2 on the R&B charts, was nominated for best jazz album at the Soul Train Awards, and earning him Black Radio Exclusive’s Best New Artist Award.

In 1991, he released his award-winning third album, 107 Degrees in the Shade, for which he received another Soul Train Award, only losing to Quincy Jones’ Back on the Block! Since then, he has released another six albums, many to critical acclaim. His most recent release Harlem (2013) is a tribute to the historic New York neighborhood where he resides and showcases his diverse musical influences.

Alex Bugnon has built a loyal fan base across the country and around the world. In recent years, he has focused on interacting directly with listeners, with a tour schedule that never slows, even surpassing the great Dizzy Gillespie’s record with over 20 appearances at D.C.’s Blues Alley.

He makes it a point of never to miss a day on the piano.

Alex Bugnon returns to Middle C Jazz on Friday and Saturday June 6-7.

Learn more about Alex through his website.