About
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 within different jazz idioms, from hard-bop to jazz fusion. A graduate of the jazz doctoral program at USC’s Thornton School of Music, he has worked with notable Canadian jazz musicians including Brad Turner, Cory Weeds, John Korsrud, Steve Kaldestad, John Lee, Jodi Proznick, and Jon Bentley. 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, as well as his fusion group “Ardy-Electric”. 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 be recording his debut album as a leader under 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, while also playing 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.