Saxophonist Jonah
Parzen-Johnson, BM Steinhardt '10, grew up on Chicago's South Side
surrounded by rich traditions contributed from sources as varied as the
AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians) and
Chicago Blues and Jazz scenes. In Chicago, Jonah learned from such Jazz
pillars and rising stars as Mwata Bowden, Matana Roberts, Pat
Mallanger, Willie Pickens, Prof. Ronald Carter and Bobby Broom. Moving
to New York City to study Jazz at NYU Steinhardt, he has performed in
a variety of important jazz venues including The Blue Note Jazz Club,
The Jazz Gallery, and Smalls Jazz Club, along with NYU Jazz faculty
including Randy Brecker, Lenny Pickett, Joe Lovano, Ralph Alessi, Kenny
Werner and Brian Lynch.
Through the NYU Jazz Program, Jonah has
traveled to Europe and Canada, and will be traveling to NYU Abu Dhabi
to perform with the NYU Jazz Orchestra. Jonah has recently recorded
with NYU Steinhardt Jazz faculty members Kenny Werner, Billy Drummond,
Dave Schroeder and Brian Lynch, produced for legendary jazz record
producer Quincy Jones.
In his words, "NYU has provided me with
an environment that is both directive and nurturing. A place where I
have been inspired to work towards a better understanding of the Jazz
language, and given many opportunities to perform in the greatest clubs
in New York city, with some of the greatest musicians in the world."