MSM Notable Alumni

The Manhattan School of Music, located in New York City, is a prestigious institution renowned for its exceptional contributions to the world of music and performing arts. Founded in 1917, the school has built a remarkable legacy by nurturing talent that has gone on to shape the global cultural landscape. Its alumni have made significant impacts across various fields, including music performance, composition, education, and even broader creative industries, influencing generations through their artistry and innovation.

Notable Alumni:

• Angelo Badalamenti - Acclaimed composer known for iconic film scores, including David Lynch’s "Twin Peaks."
• Donald Byrd - Influential jazz trumpeter and educator who shaped modern jazz and funk music.
• Herbie Hancock - Legendary jazz pianist and composer, winner of multiple Grammy Awards for innovative works.
• Max Roach - Pioneering jazz drummer and composer, a key figure in bebop and civil rights activism.
• Ron Carter - Renowned jazz bassist, prolific recording artist, and member of Miles Davis’s quintet.
• Steve Reich - Influential minimalist composer whose works redefined contemporary classical music globally.
• Marin Alsop - Trailblazing conductor, first woman to lead a major American orchestra, Baltimore Symphony.
• Jeremy Denk - Celebrated pianist and writer, known for blending classical music with insightful commentary.
• Danilo Pérez - Grammy-winning jazz pianist and composer, blending Latin rhythms with jazz traditions.
• Jane Ira Bloom - Innovative soprano saxophonist, known for pioneering electronic effects in jazz performance.

Famous People Who Attended Manhattan School of Music:

• Harry Connick Jr. - Grammy-winning singer, pianist, and actor known for jazz and pop hits.
• Lang Lang - World-renowned classical pianist celebrated for virtuosic performances and global outreach.
• Vanessa Williams - Multi-talented singer and actress, known for Broadway roles and hit songs.
• Ezra Laderman - Esteemed composer of orchestral and chamber music for film and stage.
• Justin DiCioccio - Influential jazz drummer and educator shaping modern percussion techniques.

The alumni of Manhattan School of Music have left an indelible mark on the world, from revolutionizing jazz and classical music to inspiring new generations through education and performance. Their influence extends beyond local stages in New York to international arenas, where they continue to redefine artistic expression and cultural dialogue. While this list highlights some prominent figures, comprehensive alumni records may be limited, and further details can be explored through the school’s official website or trusted archives like Manhattan School of Music’s official site.