Alexandra (Alex) Ridout is a young jazz trumpeter from the UK, now residing in the New York City. In this episode of Strictly Jazz Sounds, she lays out her journey as a musician, comparing the experiences and educational backgrounds between the UK and the US. Ridout recalls her time at the Royal Academy of Music in London and Manhattan School of Music, emphasizing her family’s influence, especially her jazz musician parents. Highlighting her musical achievements, the conversation includes her participation and victory in the BBC Youth Competition, winning at 17 years old. She talks about her association with renowned musicians and mentors, including trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, now Dean of Jazz Arts at the Manhattan School of Music, and her involvement with the all-female group, Artemis. As with many women in the jazz industry, the topic of women’s growing strength emerges. She also addresses the challenges and realities of the recording industry today, stressing the importance of patience and genuine passion in pursuing a music career. The conversation culminates with her upcoming performance on International Jazz Day and a surprise familial discovery.
Alexandra Ridout generously allowed me to record portions of the show she and her quintet performed at their concert, hosted by A Tribe for Jazz as part of their 2024 International Jazz Series for International Jazz Day.
This episode provides two tracks from the show and one from her Remote Duets EP that can be found at Bandcamp.com. The first track, “Compersion Song” (7:71), an original composition by Alexandra Ridout, features solos by Alex on trumpet, Tal Kalman – tenor sax, Iver Cardas – guitar and Karl Henrik-Ousbäck – drums. Rafael Enciso is on double bass.
The second track is “BM Blues” (9:47), also written by Alexandra Ridout. The band members remain the same with soloists: Alexandra Ridout-trumpet, Iver Cardas – guitar, Tal Kalman – tenor sax and Karl Henrik-Ousbäck – drums. The third track heard near the end of the show is from Remote Duets Alexandra Ridout has on Bandcamp. The track is entitled “No Train” (3:41). Miles Midlin joins her on guitar.
Photo of Alexandra Ridout by Melody McLaren.