Alex Taylor is a Classically trained violinist with a passion for Gypsy Jazz and Celtic folk music. After graduating with an Honours degree from the University of Southern Queensland in 2001

Alex moved to the UK and began performing with local theatre companies; teaching himself Jazz to perform with The Schmoozenbers and his own group Sweet & Lowdowns with Jay Singh (guitars). He also teamed up with well known Bristol Jazz pianist Jim Blomfield to form the more contemporary Zero-Day Jazz Trio.

During this time Alex played with and produced a Jazz/Soul band with singer and radio DJ personality Kizzy Morrell. Alex has also provided violin parts for Neil Davidge (Massive Attack) for the French TV series Spotless (2015). Alex has performed for various functions, garden parties, weddings and festivals in England including Glastonbury Folk Festival with The Schmoozenbergs in 2017.

In 2018 Alex was given the rare opportunity to perform with Tango professional dancer and teacher Alejandro Angelica (Buenos Aires/Milan) working up a theatrical show in three days coached by Argentinian musicians Pablo Logiovine (bandoneon) and pianist Benjamin Sebban. The experience was invaluable for picking up the authentic tango style, which requires a rougher edge than conventional classical music.

Here in Melbourne Alex has enjoyed working with artists Wendy Rule, Mushroom Giant, The Boy Who Spoke Clouds et al. He is currently exploring his passion for Celtic music with his new band ‘The Strayaways’ performing repertoire picked up at Irish sessions hosted by The Last Jar and The Lomand pub.