Aaron Parks and Friends

Aaron Parks is an acclaimed American jazz pianist and composer known for his innovative and introspective style. In this concert, Aaron makes full use of his colleagues on the Sligo Jazz 2026 faculty, with two fabulous lineups.

Aaron Parks, piano with guests:
Lucia Cadotsch - voice
Liselotte Östblom - voice
Emma Rawicz - saxophone
Freddie Hendrix - trumpet
Gareth Lochrane - flute
Rob Luft - guitar
Tom Ollendorff, guitar
Jasper Hoiby - bass
Darren Beckett - drums
Stephen Davis - drums
Paul Clarvis - percussion

Born in Seattle, Washington, he began playing piano at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional talent.

Parks studied at the University of Washington and the Manhattan School of Music, where he honed his craft under the tutelage of renowned pianist Kenny Barron. His career took off when he joined Terence Blanchard's band at the age of 18, contributing to several critically acclaimed albums, including the Grammy-winning A Tale of God's Will (A Requiem for Katrina).

Since then, Parks has established himself as a leading figure in contemporary jazz, releasing numerous solo albums and collaborating with a wide range of artists such as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Ambrose Akinmusire. He is also a founding member of the acclaimed jazz quartet James Farm alongside Joshua Redman, Matt Penman, and Eric Harland.

Parks' music seamlessly blends elements of modern jazz, indie rock, and Eastern modalities, creating a unique and personal sound. His playing is characterised by its lyrical beauty, rhythmic complexity, and harmonic sophistication. He is celebrated for his ability to evoke emotion and introspection through his music, making him one of the most influential and respected jazz pianists of his generation.