www.johnkocur.com
Alto saxophonist John Kocur isn’t called “The Smoker” for nothing. He’s
simply one of the finest soloists the D.C. jazz scene has to offer—and, it
turns out, one of its most promising composers and bandleaders,
too."*-Michael J. West, Washington City Paper
Jazz saxophonist and composer John Kocur is captivating new audiences by
putting an adventurous yet accessible spin on a classic tradition. Kocur's
compositions have been described as "mainly straight-ahead and clearly
influenced by the playing of past masters such as Johnny Hodges and
Cannonball Adderley, but they are not simply derivative. The ballads in
particular display a maturity in writing and playing" (Bruce Lindsay, All
About Jazz). While highlighting original music, the Quartet also creates
unique interpretations of popular American songs from past and present. The
group's style is an intimate, all-acoustic format, where the music takes
center stage. Recent performances by the John Kocur Quartet have included
venues such as Blues Alley, Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, the DC Jazz
Festival, Twins Jazz, and the Phillips Collection. Kocur's first album,
"The Smoker" is available for sale online and at performances. The
compilation of all original compositions was WAMMIE-nominated in 2009.
John fell in love with the possibilities of the saxophone at the age of 10
while performing in the school band program in Medford, NY. After studying
music at the university level, John embarked on a full-time career in music
performance and education. In 2008, John was one of six musicians selected
as an Artist-In-Residence at the Strathmore Performing Arts Center in
Bethesda, MD, through which he presented a series of solo concerts and
lectures. In 2010, John was selected for the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead
residency program at the John F. Kennedy Center, where he worked with jazz
legends such as Curtis Fuller, Dr. Billy Taylor, Carmen Lundy, George
Cables, and Winard Harper.
In addition to leading his own group, John has performed as a sideman with
the Thad Wilson Jazz Orchestra, Capital Focus Jazz Band, and the Too Damn
Big Orchestra. In addition, he frequently collaborates with musicians in
other genres, playing with progressive hip-hop artist Christylez Bacon and
bluegrass duo Herb and Hanson. John has proudly performed overseas at the
Jazz Ascona Festival in Switzerland and the first annual Nagano Jazz
Festival in Japan. Throughout his career, he has shared the stage with jazz
artists such as Benny Golson, Fred Wesley, Jimmie Owens, Freddie Redd, and
Buck Hill.
As an educator, John has given workshops and lectures at universities and
high schools. He currently teaches jazz and saxophone at Northern Virginia
Community College(NOVA) in Alexandria, VA. He is both founder and director
of the NOVA Alexandria Jazz Ensemble. John continues to be grateful for the
instruction and inspiration offered by his teachers: Dale Underwood, James
Carroll, Charlie Young III, and Dr. Sais Kamalidiin. John holds a
Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from George Mason University and a
Master of Music Degree in Jazz Studies from Howard University.
