STEVE ALLEE

Biography

Steve Allee, born September 14, 1950, in Indianapolis, Indiana, is an American jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator whose career has been deeply rooted in the Indianapolis jazz scene since the 1960s[1][7]. Allee’s musical journey began in his school band, where he initially played trombone before his band director encouraged him to learn piano—a decision that would shape his future. Within two years, he was studying with Indianapolis jazz legend Claude Sifferlen, whom he credits as his mentor[2]. Despite a brief stint at Indiana University’s School of Music, Allee chose to focus on performing, quickly establishing himself as a professional musician by touring with the Buddy Rich Orchestra as a teenager[1][5].

Over the decades, Allee has become a central figure in Indianapolis jazz, known for his versatility as a performer, composer, and arranger. He has released several albums as a leader, including the Grammy-nominated big band album Downtown Blues and more recent projects like Naptown Sound, which pays homage to the city’s rich jazz heritage[1][6]. His musical style is firmly grounded in the straight-ahead jazz tradition, often infused with the distinctive “Naptown Sound” associated with Indianapolis legends such as Wes Montgomery and Freddie Hubbard[6][8]. Beyond performing, Allee has composed for film and television, served as music director for the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Show, and held teaching positions at the University of Cincinnati and Indiana University[1][3]. His legacy is that of a bridge between generations, preserving and advancing the Indianapolis jazz tradition while mentoring new musicians.

Fun Facts

• Steve Allee was drafted number one in the U.S. Army draft lottery during the Vietnam War era but did not serve due to the birth of his son[2].
• He composed the score for the film New York in the Fifties, which was performed live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland[1].
• Allee’s album Downtown Blues was nominated for a Grammy Award and featured jazz luminaries John Clayton and John Von Ohlen[1].
• Despite opportunities to leave Indianapolis, Allee chose to remain, becoming a torchbearer for the city’s jazz tradition and coining the term 'Naptown Sound' to describe its unique musical identity[2][6].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Claude Sifferlen - Primary piano teacher and mentor in Indianapolis (Early formative years, Baron Von Ohlen Quartet) [Late 1960s–1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Buddy Rich - Toured as pianist with Buddy Rich Orchestra (Buddy Rich Orchestra tours) [Late 1960s–early 1970s]
• John Von Ohlen - Co-founded Baron Von Ohlen Quartet, core of Von Ohlen’s big band (Baron Von Ohlen Quartet, Downtown Blues) [1970s–1980s]
• Rufus Reid - Member of the 'Out Front' trio, contributor to Grammy-nominated projects (Out Front, Quiet Pride) [2000s–2010s]
• Slide Hampton - Performed and recorded together (Various live performances and recordings) [1980s–2000s]
• James Moody - Performed and recorded together (Live performances, recordings) [1980s–2000s]
• John Clayton - Featured on Downtown Blues, guest conductor on Naptown Sound (Downtown Blues, Naptown Sound) [2000s–2010s]

Artists Influenced

• Indianapolis jazz community - Mentored and inspired local musicians through teaching and performance (University teaching, local jazz scene) [1970s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Skyfire - Steve Allen & Devon Colombage Remix
2. Giver of Light
3. Adagio For Strings 2021
4. Fairytales (From Then On)
5. Silhouette - Steve Allen 2019 Respray
6. Refrains Of Nature
7. Falling
8. Another Perfect Day - Steve Allen Remix
9. Home
10. The Sign

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia