Echoes & Inspirations: Melissa Aldana’s Jazz Journey

What this episode covers

Show Notes:In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy-nominated saxophonist and composer Melissa Aldana. As the first female instrumentalist and first South American to win the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition, Melissa shares her remarkable journey from Santiago, Chile, to the global jazz stage.Highlights:• Melissa discusses her early influences, including her family’s musical legacy and the pivotal moment she switched to tenor sax after hearing Sonny Rollins.• Insights into her creative process, the importance of transcribing jazz greats, and learning to embrace her own sound.• The story behind her latest Blue Note album, Echoes of the Inner Prophet, and how it honors the late Wayne Shorter.• A preview of her upcoming album Filin, produced by Don Was, featuring Central and South American ballads and collaborations with renowned artists.• Reflections on music as a tool for personal growth and connection.• Details about her upcoming performance at SFJAZZ’s Miner Auditorium as part of the Upswing series, sharing the stage with pianist Taylor Eigsti.• Featured Tracks:• “Unconscious Whispers” from Echoes of the Inner Prophet• “Echoes of the Inner Prophet” (title track) Links & Resources:• Melissa Aldana Official Website• Echoes of the Inner Prophet on Blue Note Records• SFJAZZ Tickets & Info• DownBeat Magazine• Follow Melissa Aldana on Instagram Upcoming San Francisco Show:• Date: Saturday, January 17th• Venue: Miner Auditorium, SFJAZZ Center• Double Bill: Melissa Aldana & Taylor Eigsti• Get Tickets

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How long is this episode of Songs & Stories?

This episode is 24 minutes long.

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This episode was published on December 30, 2025.

What is this episode about?

Show Notes:In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy-nominated saxophonist and composer Melissa Aldana. As the first female instrumentalist and first South American to win the Thelonious Monk International Jazz...

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