Alexander Claffy Trio featuring David Kikoski

At age 33, bassist Alexander Claffy has become one of the most in-demand performers of his generation, both as a sideman working with the biggest names in Jazz and Popular music, and also as a bandleader, composer and producer. Living in New York City but born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, Claffy is the next great Jazz artist in his hometown’s storied lineage, following in the footsteps of Philadelphia bass luminaries such as Christian McBride, Percy Heath and Jimmy Garrison. His resumé as a sideman reads as a veritable who’s who of Jazz royalty, ranging from Jazz masters such as George Coleman, Harold Mabern, Jimmy Cobb, Fred Hersch, Randy Brecker, Wallace Roney and Louis Hayes, to the top stars of today such as Nicholas Payton, Eric Alexander, Christian Adjtunde Adjuah, Kevin Hays, Makoto Ozone, Benny Green, Carl Allen,Seamus Blake and Kurt Rosenwinkel - the latter of which he appeared with 4 different times, at the legendary Village Vanguard between 2022 to 2025. His work in more Pop settings with the likes of trumpet icon Chris Botti, the genre-bending songstress Veronica Swift and breakout Hamilton star vocalist Leslie Odom Jr. prove his versatility as a bassist and musician know no bounds. When he’s not touring the world headlining major Jazz festivals and clubs, Claffy can be found in any of the top venues in New York City’s decorated Jazz scene such as Birdland, the Blue Note, Dizzy’s Club, SMOKE and Smalls, as well as frequent trips back to Philadelphia, where he is committed to enriching and enlivening his hometown scene as well. In his spare time he continues his dedication to work as a clinician and teacher, hosting a private studio of bass students as well as adjunct work at his alma mater, the New School of Jazz, and the Tribeca Jazz Institute.