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Alex Yoo
Alex Yoo (b. 2000) is a Korean-American drummer and musician from New York City, known for his dynamic and versatile artistry. A musical journey deeply rooted in his upbringing in Bayside, Queens, Alex began playing drums at the age of seven at his mother’s music school.
In middle school, Alex studied classical percussion at Queens College, honing his skills on marimba and timpani. Paired with his private drum-set studies, his talents and dedication earned him a place at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where his focus shifted to jazz and improvisation. During high school, Alex participated in prestigious programs such as the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra and Combo, the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance, and the Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra.
Alex's high school years were marked by numerous accolades, including full scholarships to the Brubeck Institute Summer Jazz Colony and the Skidmore Jazz Institute. He was also recognized as a YoungArts Merit Winner, further solidifying his reputation as a rising talent in the jazz world.
Alex went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Drum Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music, where he refined his artistry under the mentorship of legendary drummers Billy Hart and Nasheet Waits. Additionally, he studied improvisation with some of the most innovative voices in contemporary music, including Jason Moran, Melissa Aldana, Jason Palmer, and Joe Morris.
Alex's drumming has taken him across diverse musical landscapes, from touring the U.S. with indie-pop artist Laura Elliott to opening for the AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians). In 2024, Alex made his international debut in Seoul, South Korea, performing with his quartet, and was selected for the Looking Glass Arts Recording Retreat with his duo project PuriKoko, where he recorded an upcoming album set for release.
Alex continues to perform and record with numerous artists and bands across NYC, and is currently on teaching faculty at Rhythm NY Music School in Great Neck, NY.
