Celebrate 325 years of piano history at Studio Bell with performances by pianists from Calgary and beyond, featuring iconic instruments from the National Music Centre’s collection in the new Piano 325 exhibition.
About Alexander Gonzalez
Alexander Gonzalez is a 21-year-old enrolled at the University of Calgary pursuing a double degree in Bachelor of music in Piano Performance (Jazz track) and Philosophy. Born in Venezuela, moved to Canada at 9 months old and started music lesson at the age of 4 focusing on classical music (level 10 RCM). He is currently pursuing the ARCT diploma.
He began exploring jazz in high school during a summer at the Ambrose Jazz Camp, from there he joined the JazzYYC Youth Lab Band, which had a transformative impact on his life. It allowed him to meet the Calgary Jazz Community, musician and instructors and the Calgary Music Community in general. Alex is currently studying with Jon Day at the University of Calgary with other instructors such as Tyler Hornby for combo and Gerry Herbert and Jon Day for Big band. He has also studied with Michelle Grégoire. He also continues classical studies with Lana Henchell One of his first performances was during the pandemic with the JazzYYC Youth Lab Band, a recorded session, which was an exciting opportunity.
Since then, Alex has performed with various groups in Calgary, at different venues, collaborating with both seasoned and emerging musicians in the city. He is also part of the UofC Jazz Orchestra and combo.
About Piano 325
Piano 325 is a new National Music Centre exhibition celebrating the 325th anniversary of the piano. Over three centuries, the piano — shaped by the innovations of countless builders and manufacturers — has remained one of the most important and versatile instruments in music, influencing nearly every genre and artists from Beethoven to Elton John.
Piano 325 spotlights the stories of the builders and manufacturers who played key roles in the instrument’s evolution and lasting impact on music. The exhibition will feature renowned names like Broadwood & Sons, Erard, Heintzman & Co., and Steinway & Sons, alongside lesser-known pioneers like Johannes Zumpe. A rotating selection of rare and historic instruments from NMC’s collection will also be showcased, including an 1899 Broadwood grand piano.