CHRISTOPHER CLARKE is originally from Jamaica and now lives at Lee's Summit, Missouri. He is a Jazz Pianist, Keyboardist, Composer and Educator. Chris has also performed and recorded with many notable Jazz musicians throughout the years. His current activities involve performances with a number of solo musicians and local bands, most notably among these are: BMW (Brothers Making Waves), Bobby Watson, and Alaadeen & Group 21. His teaching affiliations include serving as an adjunct faculty member of the University of Missour-Kansas City Conservatory of Music's Jazz Studies Program under Professor Bobby Watson.

Initially trained as a classical pianist at The Julliard School in New York City, Clarke later began focusing on the Jazz idiom while later attending The Manhattan School of Music, and then subsequently The Berklee College of Music in Boston. Early performing experiences include performing as a member of The McDonalds All-Star Big Band, which was led by the legendary Lionel Hampton.

Upon completing 10 years of active duty service as a member of the U.S. Army, Chris relocated to Kansas City, MO. He immediately became immersed in the Kansas City Jazz heritage through various activities at the Charlie Parker Foundation. Clarke's first mentors in Kansas City were David "Daahoud" Williams, Ahmad Alaadeen and Eddie Baker among many others. As a Jazz Educator and Clinician, his formal education coupled with the hands-on experience of playing with different bands in a rich variety of settings has given Clarke a deep appreciation and understanding of the Jazz heritage. He is an enthusiastic private piano teacher and also is a published composer.

For more information about Mr. Clarke's original catalogue of works visit his official website: www.ChristopherClarke.com.