Profile Info

Bio:
Saxophonist and composer Ardeshir Pourkeramati blends his deep roots in the jazz tradition with a fresh perspective, crafting a dynamic and expressive sound. Currently based in Vancouver, BC, he has worked across different jazz idioms, from hard bop to jazz fusion. An alumnus of USC’s Thornton School of Music, Ardeshir has worked with notable Canadian jazz musicians including Brad Turner, Cory Weeds, Steve Kaldestad, John Lee, Jodi Proznick, and John Korsrud. He has also been a part of the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra, the Hard Rubber Orchestra, Goma Dura, the Jaelem Bhate Jazz Orchestra, and the Colin Sankey Group. Ardeshir currently leads his jazz quintet and his fusion group, “ArdyTronics”. Regardless of musical genre, his sound and adventurous spirit make him a compelling presence in the present jazz scene. In the Fall of 2025, Ardeshir will record his debut album as a leader for the prestigious record label Cellar Music. A long-time student of saxophone guru Stan Karp, Ardeshir completed his doctorate in jazz studies at the University of Southern California, where he studied with jazz greats Bob Mintzer, Clarence Penn, and Vince Mendoza. During his studies, he played in the Thornton Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Bob Mintzer and was also mentored by the legendary Ralph Moore and Eric Reed. Ardeshir received his master’s degree from the University of Oregon under the direction of Steve Owen. There, he had the chance to perform with guest artist Sean Jones with the Oregon Jazz Ensemble and play with the school’s honors “JazzArts” combo. During this time, he had the chance to study with the legendary Dave Liebman. Ardeshir received his bachelor’s degree from Capilano University, where he was mentored by Canadian greats Brad Turner, Steve Kaldestad, Jared Burrows, and Bill Coon. He had the opportunity to perform with guest artists such as Maria Schneider, Donny McCaslin, and Ambrose Akinmusire in the University’s “A” big band.
Instruments I play:
FluteSaxophone
Performance Links:

Teaching Info

Instruments I teach:
ClarinetFluteSaxophone
Where I teach:
Vancouver
How to reach me: