Alex Kerwin

Alex Kerwin has been playing music since the age of nine, taking piano lessons for three years before switching to the saxophone. Growing up he was exposed to many different styles of music. He took classical saxophone lessons for six years, participated in many jazz classes and workshops, and played in a variety of bands that specialized in funk, ska, blues, bluegrass, and rock.

Alex graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2014 with a B.A. in Music, where he studied privately with both Geof Bradfield and Scott Burns. Alex also had the opportunity to play with and learn from many renowned jazz musicians during his time there, including Lee Konitz, Benny Golson, Christian McBride, Barry Harris, and Gerald Clayton.

Alex’s approach to teaching focuses on both technical proficiency on the instrument as well as mastering the fundamentals of music, including music theory and aural skills. No matter what kind of music you wish to play, developing these two skills will allow you to express yourself musically!

Alex plays with various groups around Chicago, including The Giving Trio, Tales to Astonish, and the Jon Rarick Nonet. He also teaches chess classes, and enjoys playing chess and other board games in his free time.