Jonathan Barber is a renowned international artist, composer, educator, and bandleader. In 2018, he was voted the #1 Up-and-Coming Drummer by Modern Drummer, solidifying his position as a rising star in the music industry. With a stellar reputation as a sideman, Barber has already recorded and toured worldwide with esteemed artists like Pat Metheny, Terence Blanchard, Erykah Badu, Nicholas Payton, and many others.
While Barber has excelled as a sideman, he has also emerged as a composer and leader with his band, Vision Ahead. His latest album, "Legacy Holder," received critical acclaim, earning 4.5 stars from DownBeat magazine. Jonathan Barber & Vision Ahead's music combines elements of classic jazz, gospel, rock, soul, and fusion, showcasing Barber's versatility and broad stylistic range as both a composer and performer.
Notable appearances for Jonathan Barber & Vision Ahead include headlining the Rainy Days Jazz Festival in St. Petersburg and Moscow, Russia, as well as the Hartford Jazz Festival and the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival. As an independent artist, Barber recently released his third album with Vision Ahead, titled "Live at Jazz Standard," available exclusively on Bandcamp.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Barber has taken on the role of Jazz Drum Instructor at the University of Connecticut, expanding his artistry as an educator. He has also toured as a solo clinician in various locations, including Latin America, Quebec City, China, and PASIC 2022.
Jonathan Barber & Vision Ahead continue to push artistic boundaries, with their newest album, "Poetic," released in May 2022. With his exceptional talent, diverse musical influences, and dedication to education, Jonathan Barber is a force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz and beyond.