Jason Parker is a Seattle-based jazz trumpet player, educator, and writer, renowned for his leadership of the Jason Parker Quartet (JPQ). Praised by Earshot Jazz as “the next generation of Seattle jazz,” the JPQ has released five critically acclaimed albums and performed extensively up and down the West Coast.

Parker’s musical journey began in his youth, inspired by a Dizzy Gillespie concert at his elementary school. After a decade-long career in radio (ending with a stint as Program Director of Seattle’s legendary 103.7FM The Mountain), he returned to his musical roots in 1995, forming the JPQ and establishing himself as a prominent figure in Seattle’s jazz scene.

Beyond leading the JPQ, Parker plays in and collaborates with various groups, including Grace Love, improv-funk ensemble Water Babies and the Nate Omdal Nonet. He has performed with artists such as Tom Scott, Crooked Fingers, and Sarah Shannon, and has shared stages with acts like Elvis Costello and The Presidents of the United States of America.

Parker has taught through many different organizations, including the YMCA, Right Brain Center for the Arts, ArtsCoprs, EMP/MoPOP, Jazz Night School, and until joining SJA was the Director of Jazz Ensembles and Fine Arts Department Chair at University Prep.

Residing in North Seattle with his wife and two daughters, Parker is passionate about sharing his love for music and celebrating life's special moments through performance.