AJ Allida presents: A TRANScendent Rebirth

Lineup: AJ Allida, compositions, arrangements, and piano; Zyanna Melada, vocals; Chris-Clark Johnson, guitar; Robert Rodriguez, bass; Dae Bryant, drums.

AJ Allida is a pianist, composer, and music educator based in Portland, Oregon. Shortly after immigrating to the United States from the Philippines, AJ began taking classical piano lessons at the age of 5. During his years studying classical piano, he participated in the National Federation of Music Clubs, earning numerous awards for Outstanding Piano Solo and Concerto performances.

After two years of college at Mt. Hood Community College, he was first introduced to the art of jazz music and began studying with Mike Horsfall and Clay Giberson. His interest in jazz grew, leading him to transfer to Portland State University as a Jazz Piano major, where he studied with esteemed professors and musicians, including George Colligan, Kerry Politzer, and Darrell Grant.

His playing draws inspiration from his experience navigating life as a Filipinx, trans, and queer individual. AJ recently graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies and continues to work as a teacher and musician in the Portland and Seattle areas. Outside of music, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Clair, family, and friends.