Don Alder
Native Vancouverite, Don Alder is true BC gem. He is a Three-time World Champion, Multi-Awarded Acoustic Guitarist and one of the pioneers of the solo percussive acoustic guitar style. He performs with a passion rarely seen and is one of those acoustic guitar magicians with a signature style that leaves you wondering how he is making that wall of sound. He is also recognized as one of the of the world’s top harp guitarists.
Don’s early influences include Bruce Cockburn, Joni Mitchell and Wishbone Ash. Ray Daniels (Rush, Mgr) said, “Alder is one of those guitarists that should be famous around the world.” Both Grammy Guitarist Lee Ritenour and Classical Guitar Master Leo Brouwer quoted “Alder is one of the most original guitarists I’ve seen.”
Don’s heart is also as big as his talent. In 1985 he put his music career on hold for 2 .5 years to help his life-long friend Rick Hansen on his “Man in Motion World Tour” an epic journey, now part of Canadian History. Don was the only member to complete the entire gruelling tour. This experience set the stage for Don to become the wheelchair tech for the Canadian Paralympic team and to represent Canada at the 1996 and 2000 Paralympic Games. Don was also a member of “Spinal Chord”, the awareness band for the Vancouver Adapted Music Society.
He currently sits on the Board of Directors for “Empower Through Music” a Vancouver organization that donates instruments and music lessons to underprivileged children. Don received the “Brand Laureate Award” from the country of Malaysia for his contribution to the world by using his musical gifts to serve, help and inspire others to create a difference in their own communities. Only three Canadians have received this award, one being Astronaut, Chris Hadfield.
Alder is currently the only guitarist on the planet to have won all the top modern guitar competitions including a long list of accolades. Often referred to as the “Hendrix” of Acoustic Guitar, He continues to wow audiences around the world with his jaw-dropping performances and volunteer his time to charitable causes.
Honours
BC Entertainment Hall of Fame Star Meritus 2021
Vancouver Island Music Awards – “Artist of the Year” 2017
Domenic Troiano Award 2015
International Brand Laureate Recipient (Malaysia) 2013
Worldwide “Guitar Idol” Champion, UK 2011
“Guitar Superstar” Champion, Guitar Player Magazine 2010
“International Fingerstyle” Champion (Winfield, Kansas) 2007
Canadian Guitar Festival Champion 2 nd place 2006
International Fingerstyle Champion 2 nd place (Winfield, Kansas) 2006
