Don Alder, often described as the “Hendrix of Acoustic Guitar”, is a multi-award-winning guitarist from Canada. Known for his highly energetic solo performances, he appeared in 2013 with Chris Hadfield, Commander of the International Space Station. His one-man-band approach, soulful singing and engaging storytelling continue to impress audiences worldwide. Guitar Player Magazine Senior Editor Michael Molenda notes that “Alder is a Guitar Star in the making”, while Ray Daniels, Manager of Rush, highlights Alder’s percussive style and expansive sound. His 2009 album “Not A Planet” received two industry award nominations, and his online videos have reached over 3.5 million views. His music blends melody, narrative and emotional depth, and he is also regarded as one of the leading harp guitarists internationally.
As winner of the 2011 Worldwide Guitar Idol competition in London, the 2010 Guitar Superstar contest in Los Angeles and the 2007 International Fingerstyle Championships, Alder is the only guitarist to have won all major guitar competitions with an acoustic instrument.
His dedication has enabled rare achievements in the guitar world, supported by a performance career marked by expressive intensity. At his 2013 appearance in Malaysia he received the Brand Laureate Award, previously awarded to Chris Hadfield. Alder and Hadfield were later paired for a special performance of “Space Oddity”, with Alder playing harp guitar. His versatility has led to invitations to exclusive events such as TED Vancouver, Sam Sullivan’s Public Salon, the Vancouver Olympics and International All Star Guitar Nights. He has also performed duets with Grammy-winning artists including John Parr and Angélique Kidjo, and collaborated with modern poets Shane Koyczan and Kyprios. His music has appeared in documentaries, films and corporate media. Alder’s role in supporting Rick Hansen’s world tour in a wheelchair was portrayed in the film “Heart of a Dragon”.
Today, Alder performs widely across Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia, sharing stages with Lee Ritenour, Victor Wooten, Tommy Emmanuel, Andy McKee, Mike Dawes, Ellen McIlwaine, Muriel Anderson and many others. He has also headlined festivals alongside artists such as Don Ross, Pierre Bensusan, Billy Sheehan, Ric Emmet, Larry Carlton and Dave Martone.
Alder has been featured in Guitar Player Magazine and other leading publications. As a Yamaha Guitars International artist, he has appeared in Yamaha All Access magazine alongside Jason Mraz, Herbie Hancock and Sarah McLachlan. He holds multiple endorsement deals, including signature guitars by Greenfield Guitars and Dickert Guitars, and has been featured in campaigns for Ernie Ball Strings, Seymour Duncan pickups and Santo Angelo Cables.
Quotes
- “Even though Don stepped onto the Guitar Superstar stage as a solo-acoustic performer, he played with ferocity and charisma, and totally owned the audience.” – Michael Molenda
- “Alder is one of those guitarists that should be famous around the world.” – Ray Daniels
- “Your performance was transcendental.” – George Lynch
- “You entertained us, simply amazing.” – Elliot Easton
- “The world needs to see you!” – Gary Hoey
- “Still shocked by Don Alder’s talent.” – Carly Rae Jepsen
- “A one man mosh-pit.” – Matt Mustapick
- “Canada’s secret fingerstyle weapon.” – Michael Greenfield
- “Guitar Hero.” – Penticton Herald
- “One of the best acoustic guitarists in the world.” – Vancouver Courier
