JAZZ.FM91 is delighted to announce that Alex Pedherney is the 2021 recipient of the Peter Appleyard Scholarship.
This annual scholarship honours the legacy of vibraphonist Peter Appleyard and his incredible contribution to Canadian music by providing a current undergraduate jazz student with a scholarship in the amount of $500 for use toward their tuition. Eligible schools include Humber College, the University of Toronto, York University and Mohawk College.
Appleyard was a true giant of Canadian jazz whose commitment to music education and growing the talent of the next generation of Canadian jazz musicians endures to the present day.
A saxophonist based in Hamilton, Ont., Pedherney began his music career as a member of the Burlington Teen Tour Band before transitioning to jazz and contemporary musical styles. Over his many years of study, as well as his attendance at Mohawk College, Pedherney has worked with a variety of musicians including Francis Smith, Vern Dorge, Jeff Coffin, Felix Pastorius, Scott Nielsen, Darcy Hepner and, most recently, John Waugh of The 1975. He has also learned from Pat Collins, Adrean Farrugia and Bob Shields. Pedherney is known to perform with several Ontario-based bands including the McBrown Group, Wooly Mantis, Orion’s Dream, Joshua Pascua & The Pants and Darcy Hepner’s Oakland Soul.
Pedherney participated in last year’s season of JAZZ.FM91’s Jazzology.
“It is an incredible honour to receive such a highly esteemed award from an institution I have admired throughout my personal musical journey and development,” Pedherney said. “The legacy Peter Appleyard left behind was nothing short of incredible. His extensive resumé and overall reputation make him a highly respected figure amongst the music community. I would like to thank my professors at Mohawk College for the nomination and industry support as well as my parents for their constant encouragement.”
