James Austin Jr. Trio

James Austin Jr is an accomplished jazz pianist and bandleader who hails from Chicago, IL. He has honed his craft under the tutelage of a number of legendary jazz musicians including extensive study with Barry Harris, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz educators of all time. James’ musical achievements include being honored as a featured performer and semifinalist in the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Competition.

In recent years James has performed alongside an illustrious list of singers and musicians in diverse settings throughout the world. His skills as an expert accompanist have been showcased alongside such luminaries as Samara Joy, Dionne Warwick, Yolanda Adams, Kim Burrell, Alexis Morrast, Brian McKnight, Lalah Hathaway, Donnie McClurkin, and Bebe Winans to name a few. He has served as pianist for several star-studded concerts at Carnegie Hall under the baton of esteemed musical director, Ray Chew. James is regularly featured as a pianist and bandleader for various live concerts, theatrical performances, and civic and charitable events.

In addition, James is actively engaged in developing the next generation of musicians. He teaches at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center for its Jazz for Teens program, he is on the jazz faculty of Thurnaer School of Music (Tenafly, NJ), and he teaches jazz harmony classes at Rutgers University (Newark). James has curated and led the NJPAC Jazz Jam Session series since its inception nearly a decade ago.

Songs in the Key of Wonder, James’ debut album, showcases his tasteful instrumental arrangements of a selection of classic compositions from the songbook of the great Stevie Wonder. James also leads the Barry Harris Institute of Jazz (the organization formed to carry on the pedagogy of the late great pianist and educator) and has formed “Luminescence” an ensemble of young jazz lions assembled to celebrate Dr. Harris’ musical legacy.

James Austin Jr. - piano

Butler Knowles - bass

Kobie Watkins - drums