Susan Alcorn

Susan Alcorn was a visionary American composer, improviser, and a pioneering virtuoso of the pedal steel guitar. Initially grounding her career in Texas country and western swing bands, she radically expanded the instrument's vocabulary by integrating influences from free jazz, avant-garde classical music, and global traditions. Inspired by artists ranging from *John Coltrane* to *Pauline Oliveros* and her philosophy of "Deep Listening," Alcorn forged a unique style. She released numerous acclaimed albums, including the quintet work 'Pedernal' on #Relative Pitch Records# and solo efforts like 'Soledad', a tribute to *Astor Piazzolla*. Her innovative approach transformed the pedal steel into a versatile voice for experimental and improvised music.