Originally from Bellevue, Washingon, Dr. Jonathan Parker Small has a Bachelor of Music degree from Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, a Masters degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and has recently passed his final thesis defence for his Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Jazz Bass Performance at the University of Illinois.

During his studies, Jon has had the great pleasure of studying with Larry Gray, Jim Pugh, Chuck Deardorf, Jim Knapp, Tito Carrillo, Jovino Santos Neto, Randy Halberstadt, Tom Varner, Jarrad Powell, Ron Bridgewater, Carlos Carrillo, and Joel Spencer.

Before entering the Jazz program at the University of Illinois, Jon spent a number of years living in Seattle. While there, he had the opportunity to perform in a number of the Puget Sound’s iconic venues and intimate clubs including The Showbox, Vito’s, Triple Door, The Royal Room, The Pink Door, Owl N’ Thistle, Egan’s, Jazz Vespers, and Tula’s. Jon has performed with great musicians including Rachel Therrien, Tamir Hendelman, Jerry Granelli, Darcy James Argue, and Jim Knapp.

Jon also works extensively as a composer. A versatile writer with an eclectic range of influences, Jon has written for string orchestra, jazz big band, small jazz groups, and various chamber ensembles. Jon has also composed and arranged for the UIUC Concert Jazz Band and the UIUC Latin Jazz Band.

In addition to being an in-demand performer and composer, Jon is a dedicated educator. He has previously worked as a tutor at Cornish College of the Arts, and he taught private guitar lessons at the University of Illinois for five years. Jon has also taught music clinics at South Whidbey Middle School and Millikin University among others.

Jon maintains an active teaching studio providing private lessons both in-person and online, covering a variety of subjects including bass (upright and electric), guitar, music theory/composition, and improvisation.

For more information, and to inquire about lessons or writing/arranging services, please contact Jon here!