Show Notes:
On this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steve Roby talks with pianist Monty Alexander ahead of his upcoming SFJAZZ performance.

In the conversation, Alexander reflects on his musical roots in Kingston, Jamaica, where he grew up hearing popular songs, blues, semi-classical music, radio hits, and Caribbean rhythms as part of one shared musical world. He talks about learning by ear, discovering the piano as a child, and seeing Louis Armstrong live at a young age — a moment that helped set his life in motion.

Alexander also discusses the spirit that runs through his music: camaraderie, spontaneity, groove, and joy. He shares thoughts on playing in the moment, working with his trio, and why he has never believed in hard borders between styles. For him, it all comes back to one word: music.

In the final part of the interview, he previews his upcoming SFJAZZ show and talks about what audiences can expect from an evening built on improvisation, warmth, and deep musical connection.

In this episode:
Monty Alexander’s early years in Kingston
Learning music by ear
Seeing Louis Armstrong as a boy
Why he hears all styles as one musical language
Spontaneity, groove, and joy in performance
What to expect at SFJAZZ

SFJAZZ show details:
Monty Alexander Trio
Sunday, March 29, 2026
7:00 PM
Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center, San Francisco