Bradford Leali

Texas Tech University is pleased to announce the appointment of Bradford Leali to the College of Visual & Performing Arts.  He will begin his duties as Assistant Professor and Director of Jazz Studies in the School of Music in the fall. 

Leali received his B.A. in Music Education from the University of North Texas, where he performed with the world renowned One O’clock Lab Band.  His M.A. is from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

It was while listening to his father’s recordings of jazz masters, that Brad became intrigued with jazz.  In college, he played the Dallas scene with local tenor saxophone legends, James Clay and Marchel Ivery.  After graduation, he played lead sax for the Harry Connick, Jr. Orchestra and was appointed musical director five months later.  He moved to New York City and joined the Count Basie Orchestra as the featured alto sax soloist.  The orchestra won a Grammy and Brad was nominated for one for his solo work.  Going out on his own, he has played with many other great musicians and appeared in many widely known venues.  His philosophy is very straight forward: “I want everyone to dig my music—not just the musicians.  I want to bring soul into it…I want people to feel my music in their soul.”

Brad and his wife Megumi are looking forward to relocating to Lubbock from Brooklyn.  They and their cat Chantee are excited about the change and the challenge.  Apart from music, Brad is passionate about biking and outdoor activities.  He's eager to barbeque in his own backyard.