J. D. Parran facts for kids
J. D. Parran is an American musician, teacher, and composer. He is famous for playing many different woodwind instruments. These include various types of saxophones, clarinets, and flutes. He specializes in jazz music and a style called free improvisation, where musicians create music on the spot.
J. D. Parran's Musical Journey
J. D. Parran studied music in St. Louis, Missouri. He earned a master's degree in music education from Washington University in St. Louis. While he was a student, he joined a group called the Black Artists' Group with another musician, Hamiet Bluiett.
In 1971, Parran moved to New York City. There, he became the head of the music department at The Harlem School of the Arts. He also directed their Jazz and African American Music Studies program. He has taught music at other schools too, like the City University of New York.
Working with Famous Musicians
J. D. Parran has played music with many well-known artists. He recorded with music legends like Stevie Wonder and John Lennon. For 15 years, he was part of an experimental music group called New Winds. This group played unique music using woodwind instruments.
He is also a member of the Episteme ensemble, led by composer Anthony Davis. Parran often performs and records with Anthony Braxton's groups. He has also worked with other great musicians such as Leroy Jenkins and Peter Brötzmann. He was part of a free improvisation group called Company. This group included musicians like Derek Bailey and Evan Parker.
J. D. Parran's Recordings
J. D. Parran has released his own music albums. These include J. D. Parran & Spirit Stage from 1997 and Omegathorp: Living City from 2005.
He has also played on many albums for other artists. For example, he contributed to albums by Anthony Braxton, Thomas Buckner, and Don Byron. He also played on recordings with Anthony Davis and Marty Ehrlich. His work can be heard on albums by Julius Hemphill and even on a classic album by The Band called Rock of Ages. He also played on John Lennon and Yoko Ono's album Double Fantasy.
