Bio
Alicia Rau
Trumpet, flugelhorn, vocals
New York trumpeter Alicia Rau, originally from Iowa, is a distinguished artist in the world of jazz, rock, pop, and original music. Rau is a prominent trumpeter, vocalist, and composer, making a notable stance in the New York music scene.
Rau has worked with artists including Denis Leary, Jimmy Fallon, John Mayer, Michael J. Fox, Joe Phillips’ Numinous, the Diva Jazz Orchestra, Gordon Gano of the Violent Femmes, and the Moroccan Sheepherders. She has performed at Smalls Jazz Club, the 55 Bar, Birdland, the Blue Note, the Stone Pony, the Kitano, the Zinc Bar, the Jazz Gallery, Rockwood Music Hall, Highline Ballroom, TD Boston Garden, Yankees Stadium, and Sesame Street.
Rau’s original compositions, fueled by real-life relatable struggles, create a deep connection with the audience. Her progressive approach features new takes on the classics, jazz vocals in French and English, and diverse world grooves. Rau has a degree in Music and Anthropology from the University of Iowa & field study in Senegal, West Africa, touring nationally and internationally with numerous projects.
Rau was the solo trumpeter for the Broadway show Around the World in 80 Days, featured in NY1’s music video contest, reality show 100 Songs in 100 Days, films My Sassy Girl and Night on the Riviera. She has also worked with Paris New York Band, Dave White’s Jazz Orchestra, Tower of Power Queens, the Divine Soul Rhythm Band, and the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, sharing the stage with artists including Ann Hampton Callaway, Marcus McLaurine, Santi DeBriano, Tadataka Unno, Maurice Hines, Freda Payne, Tommy Newsom, Cleo Laine, John Dankworth, Maxine Brown, Baby Washington, Tammy Lynn, John di Martino, and Sylvia Cuenca.
Inspired by the effects of the pandemic, Rau has created an ongoing series called Clappy Hour. Publishing over 100 livestream volunteer performances, Rau’s Clappy Hour videos are presented weekly to cheer on our Frontline Workers, support our Essential Workers, and encourage anyone who needs it during this challenging time.
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