Alex developed his musical awareness at an early age. At 6 years old, you would often find him sitting alone quietly by the stereo listening for hours at a time to different types of music. It could be the Carpenters, the Doors, or even the Sound of Music Soundtrack. You can always find him sitting there just listening. Music was not far in his family.  His father was a baritone singing at operas such as Madame Butterfly and Man of La Mancha.  He also had several aunts who played classical and bebop jazz piano.  He took his first piano lessons at the age of 8. This was the spark that finally lit his musical fire. Continuing his piano lessons, he went on to learn how to play the clarinet and saxophone for his Junior High school's orchestra.  He would competed annually at the CMEA (California Music Educators Association) in the San Francisco Bay Area as a duet or quartet. This experience enabled him to understand orchestration and how each musical parts compliment each other.  He did not stop there, he also joined the school's choir.

He started his stage band career in the late 70's.  First as a rhythm guitarist then to the keyboards. Through the years, he was influenced by such artists as Joe Sample, Jeff Lorber, David Benoit, Prince and The Time, He eventually established his own unique style and sound (Jazz-Funk per se).  He eventually moved to the Sacramento Valley area in 1989.  There he continued his musical venture by hooking up with various R&B-Soul and Rock bands.  In the mid 90’s, he took a 5-year break to support his eldest children by being more involved with their school activities.  But in August 2001, he joined 2nd Planet, a Sacramento/Fairfield – Smooth/Fusion Jazz band that was mostly performing originals. This was an ideal moment for Alex.  The introduction came from a player's father who he was coaching in Little League baseball.  Thank you Gene Guerere for getting me back to music!

After breaking out of his cobwebs, he composed and co-wrote on the band’s “Beyond the Surface” CD (released 2003). During this time, the band had the opportunity to open for Paul Jackson Jr. at a Fairfield concert.  He immediately became good friends with Paul and his father, Paul Sr.  Through the years, the humble Jacksons shared their musical insights and guidance.  Alex was inspired to do more with his music.  So in 2005, Alex left 2nd Planet to expand his horizons.

He is currently playing as a featured guest artist with various local bands covering genres such as Smooth Jazz, R&B, Funk, Pop, Latin, and NeoSoul. He is constantly collaborating and recording with excellent musicians around the world.  And to further round-off his musical escapades, he also has the Alex Dedal Project.  A project that gathers top area musicians to perform at various venues.

"Music has been there from the beginning... sharing what I can do musically and watching people enjoy is my real satisfaction"
Alex D.