Alex Tompkins graduated from the Carleton University Bachelor of Music program in 2012 with Highest Honours. He is a regular performer in the Ottawa and Gatineau areas, where he works both as a sideman as well as leads his own projects. Presently, he is a member of the Beeched Wailers, which performs original jazz compositions by local Ottawa composers and released its first EP in 2015 titled “The Johnson Lake Sessions”. Alex has also recorded with the French jazz group Melanie E, lead by vocalist Melanie Hartshorn-Walton, as well as Trouble Clef, lead by vocalist Katie Hurdon. Both groups have had long careers and participated in various music festivals. Along with his work as a sideman, Alex leads his own jazz group, the Alex Tompkins Band, which performs regularly throughout the Ottawa and Gatineau area. The group features his original compositions drawing on his background in blues, jazz, funk and rock styles as well as including tunes from the Great American Songbook. He has performed at the Ottawa Bluesfest, the Ottawa Jazz Festival, the Buckingham Jazz Festival, the Merrickville Jazz Festival, as well as venues in Montreal and Toronto.