Teacher Alden grew up in Spokane, Washington, and began playing violin at five years old in a family that embraced music. By the time Alden moved to Portland at 19 years old, they had performed in Carnegie Hall, studied classical viola in Germany, and held the Principal Violist Chair of both the Spokane Youth Symphony and LCHS Chamber Orchestra. By this point they had performed on violin, viola, cello, piano, voice, banjo, and mandolin.

Upon moving to Portland, Alden shifted their focus to upright bass and electric bass, performing professionally for years before being asked to teach. After working for several music schools and starting their own private teaching studio, Alden discovered the Swallowtail community through personal contacts, and has brought their expertise in music to Swallowtail to educate the next generation in the joys of music. Music classes combine movement, song, exploration, and a sense of community and connection.