The Ostle/Parker Group is a collaborative effort between Washington DC natives Jonathan Parker (saxophone) and Curtis Ostle (bass). They have followed similar musical paths, from graduating from Oberlin Conservatory to performing, teaching, and recording throughout Asia, each having spent a few years based in Shanghai, China. Upon returning to the US, both are impacting the music scene individually in their burgeoning musical careers. Jonathan is currently pursuing a graduate degree from Eastman Conservatory while continuing to lead his own groups, and Curtis lives in New York City, making his mark as a sought-after performer in both NYC and DC.
From Washington D.C. to Shanghai, China, saxophonist Jonathan Parker has brought a dynamic musicianship to appreciative audiences. As a sideman, leader, and teacher, Parker has synthesized a varied musical and educational background as he makes his mark on the international jazz scene. Since graduating from The Oberlin Conservatory of Music in 2008 where he studied under jazz legend Gary Bartz, Jonathan has gone on to perform in cities across the United States and China. He relocated to Shanghai in 2008 where he lived and performed for two years. In the fall of 2010 Jonathan moved to New York City and released his critically-acclaimed debut album – “The Jonathan Parker Group.” “It presents a very strong introduction to the music and saxophone prowess of a talent who is poised to make his mark in that crowded NYC scene” writes SomethingElse Reviews. Most recently, Jonathan was a recipient of the 2012 ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award for his original composition, Lois.
Washington DC-native bassist Curtis Ostle is known for his warm sound, lyrical solos, and strong rhythmic sense. A versatile musician on both electric and double bass who recently relocated to New York City after almost 4 years in Shanghai, China, he is well versed in numerous musical styles including jazz, funk, and R&B, as well as classical. This has enabled him to perform and record in both the US and China with many great musicians, including Andres Boiarsky, Clay Jenkins, Jimmy Heath, Joe Labarbera, Eric Lewis, and Theo Croker as well as Hong Kong-based pop star Hao Fei Er (郝菲爾).
For more information about Jonathan or Curtis, please visit www.jonathan-parker.com or www.curtisostle.com
