If you’ve ever watched the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, you’ve most likely seen and have definitely heard the talents of Ian Hendrickson-Smith ’92. He currently plays in the show’s popular house band, The Roots.
Retired SCASD Music Educator John Kovalchik nominated Ian for this year’s Maroon & Gray Society Class. “Ian was my lead alto sax player in the Intermediate High School Jazz Band when it was one of two bands from the entire state selected to perform at Jazz Night at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association conference,” he said. “Two years later he was the lead for the Senior High Jazz Band for the same conference.”
Ian studied jazz performance at the Manhattan School of Music and then began a successful professional music career in 1996. He has worked and recorded with Lady Gaga,Bob Dylan, U2, Amy Winehouse, and Ed Sheeran throughout his career. From 2004 to 2010, he was a member of Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings. Ian’s extensive recording experience includes the release of twelve jazz records as a leader. His most recent, The Lowdown (Cellar Music 2020) topped out at #7 on the national jazz charts.
The New York City-based saxophonist and flutist is mostly noted for his remarkable tone, soulful approach, and blues-driven melodies. Equally adept on all the saxophones, Ian stays very busy doing what he loves.
