October 2022 Alumni Highlight Article
Steven Hardy’s older brothers both played the saxophone, and they inspired him to pick it up and begin playing. Hardy’s love for the saxophone only grew each time he played. One evening he saw a member from his ward play the lead alto part at the BYU Synthesis concert. From that point on he wanted nothing more than to be part of a BYU Band. His wish came true, while at BYU he played for the Jazz Band and loved it!
Hardy graduated from BYU in 2019 with a degree in Saxophone Performance. He then went to the Jacob’s School of Music at Indiana University, followed by the Eastman School of Music where he is pursuing a DMA (Doctor of Musical Arts). He is the lead alto saxophone at Eastman and teaches classes and academic bands. He also works with a Jazz combo consisting of freshmen, and with Jazz majors that are focusing on more advanced improvisation.
In 2020, Hardy performed in a Jazz band at Lincoln Center’s Inaugural Jack Rudin Jazz Championship, where the band earned 2nd place. This year he released his debut album in which he plays the saxophone, clarinet, and flute. It includes original compositions, with guest artists like Joe Palmer. The tours he went on while part of BYU directly inspired some of his compositions. For example, his song, “Southbound” is inspired by musicians he interacted with in Cuba during the Caribbean tour with Synthesis in 2019.
Hardy said he learned many lessons during his time at BYU and on his mission. He said he is grateful for those opportunities to work hard and to learn to be disciplined. He said he has seen the benefits of being disciplined through his work. “Hard work does pay off!” Hardy said.
Learn more about what Hardy is up to on his website HERE and social media HERE.
