About
Sheldon Alexander is a drummer, educator, and composer based in the Bay Area. He is the founder of Coexist and has a deep passion for various genres including Jazz, Hip Hop, Funk, Soul, and other afro-rooted styles. With his strong musical background, he received his undergraduate degree from the prestigious California Jazz Conservatory in Berkley, California. Currently, Sheldon is immersed in the creation of a captivating live octet album, set to be released in 2024, showcasing his exceptional talent and creativity.
Gerald Cleaver
“Sheldon is a smart, gifted, and hard-working young musician. Most importantly, he understands the soul of music.”
Sheldon Alexander's musical journey began in Pleasanton, California, where he was born. At the early age of three, he was drawn to the drums, playing them in his great uncle's church, Wings of Love Maranatha Ministries, in Oakland. This spiritual environment played a significant role in shaping Sheldon's perspective on music and art.
When Sheldon was seven years old, his family relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona. It was here that his deep passion for Jazz began to take root and flourish. In high school, he stumbled upon the album Headhunters, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his artistic development. The music on this album captivated him, as it seemed to tell a story through its composition, improvisation, and production. This experience forever altered how Sheldon would listen to and approach his own music.
During high school, Sheldon thrived in Jazz band, dedicating himself to becoming an exceptional team member and a skilled drummer. He eagerly joined The Nash's Legacy Ensemble, a group focused on preserving the legacy of Jazz in young musicians. Furthermore, Sheldon expanded his musical knowledge by participating in various musicals, drumline performances, and classical ensembles. Through these diverse experiences, he cultivated proficiency, a strong work ethic, and leadership skills. It was no surprise that his winning ensembles frequently garnered personal accolades at competitions.
In 2018, Sheldon completed his high school education at Maria Carillo and embarked on his next chapter at the California Jazz Conservatory (CJC). This esteemed institution would provide him with further opportunities to deepen his understanding of music and refine his craft.
At the California Jazz Conservatory (CJC), Sheldon's musical journey took a transformative turn. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors Alan Hall, Dillon Vado, Hamir Atwall, and Gerald Cleaver, his abilities and musical versatility grew exponentially. Through countless hours of dedicated study, Sheldon honed his skills and expanded his repertoire.
His undergraduate studies further nurtured his passion for Afro-rooted music, providing a solid foundation for his musical journey. Sheldon developed a deep sensitivity to the authenticity and cultural origins of the music he played. This profound understanding imbued his performances with a unique resonance, allowing him to connect with both the music and its audience on a profound level.
Not content with just personal growth, Sheldon also embraced the role of an educator. He became a mentor to numerous private students in the Bay Area, sharing his expertise and nurturing the talents of aspiring musicians. His dedication and commitment to his students earned him the reputation of a trusted guide and inspirational teacher.
As Sheldon's reputation grew, he became integral to the thriving Bay Area music scene. In addition to his own performances at prestigious venues like Bird and Beckett, Mr. Tipples, and many more, he founded the R&B fusion band COEXIST. With COEXIST, Sheldon blended genres and pushed the boundaries of traditional music, creating an electrifying and soul-stirring experience for audiences.
Yet, Sheldon's musical journey didn't stop there. He also immersed himself in projects such as Oak Town Soul, Celestial Bodies, The Adrian West Band, Minutia, Pro Bono, and many others, showcasing his remarkable talents as a versatile side man. His ability to adapt to different musical styles and collaborate effectively with fellow musicians earned him an esteemed place among his peers.
Through dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Sheldon has carved out a place for himself in the Bay Area music scene. His unparalleled musicality, combined with a deep-rooted respect for the origins of music, ensures that his performances resonate authentically with all who have the privilege of experiencing his artistry.
