Joseph Alessi | |
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| Background information | |
| Born | Joseph Norman Alessi (1959-09-20)September 20, 1959 (age 66) |
| Genres | |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Instrument | Trombone |
| Years active | 1976–present |
| Member of | New York Philharmonic |
| Website | josephalessi |
Joseph Norman Alessi (born September 20, 1959) is an American classicaltrombonist with theNew York Philharmonic.
Joseph Norman Alessi was born inDetroit, Michigan and attended high school inSan Rafael, California. His father, also named Joseph Alessi, was a professionaltrumpet player, and his mother, Maria (née Leone) sang in theMetropolitan Opera chorus. His younger brotherRalph Alessi is ajazz trumpeter. Displaying notable talent himself from an early age, Alessi graduated early from high school at age 16 and successfully auditioned to join theSan Francisco Ballet Orchestra. During this time he appeared as a soloist with theSan Francisco Symphony. In 1976-77, following a previously unsuccessful audition, Alessi gained entry to theCurtis Institute of Music inPhiladelphia, where he studied until 1980.[1]
During his third year at Curtis, Alessi joined thePhiladelphia Orchestra as interim Second Trombone; he later won the job permanently and performed with the orchestra for four seasons. Following one season as Principal Trombone at theMontreal Symphony Orchestra, Alessi joined the New York Philharmonic as Principal Trombone in the Spring of 1985.
Alessi made his solo debut with the New York Philharmonic in 1990 when he performed theFantasy for Trombone byPaul Creston. In 1992, he performed with the New York Philharmonic in the world premiere of theTrombone Concerto byChristopher Rouse, which later received the 1993Pulitzer Prize for Music. Alessi has since developed an increasingly active solo career, performing throughout the United States and internationally. His discography consists of over 14 full-length albums, in addition to guest appearances on albums by other artists. The New York Philharmonic has released recordings of the RouseConcerto and theColorado Symphony, featuring Alessi as soloist. His 1999 recording ofStar-Child, byGeorge Crumb, was votedBest Classical Contemporary Composition at the43rd Grammy Awards in 2001.
Alessi joined the faculty of theJuilliard School in 1986, shortly after joining the New York Philharmonic. The Juilliard trombone studio has since furthered its international reputation as one of the most exemplary trombone college programs, and the Juilliard Trombone Choir has regularly performed with Alessi on his recording projects. Since 1999 Alessi has conducted theAlessi Seminar; a biennial trombone workshop that attracts trombonists from around the world to spend time with him in lessons, masterclasses, and recitals.[2] Several of his past students now occupy senior positions in major orchestras throughout the world.
In recognition of Alessi's immense contributions to the trombone community, he was awarded the 2002ITA Award, the most prestigious award offered by theInternational Trombone Association.
Joseph Alessi's playing is often noted for refined musicianship, an extraordinarily rich sound quality and complete technical control. The music he chooses to play is mainly romantic, classical, and modern (but mainly tonal) music, while occasionally adding in some jazz playing.
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