Dr. James H. Patterson, a renowned conductor, musician, teacher, composer, arranger, and music union advocate, has made significant contributions to the jazz music industry. Growing up in a musical family in Atlanta, he was influenced by his parents, who played various instruments.
A 1957 graduate of Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University), Dr. Patterson returned to his alma mater in 1968 as a professor and founded The Clark Atlanta Jazz Orchestra. Under his leadership, the orchestra has performed with jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Cab Calloway and participated in international jazz festivals.
Dr. Patterson's extensive musical career includes directing the Drum and Bugle Corps during his U.S. Army service and performing with the Seventh Army Band in Europe. He earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan and completed postgraduate studies at Clark Atlanta University and The University of Wisconsin. In 2018, he received an Honorary Doctorate from Morris Brown College.
Recognized as a leading jazz educator, Dr. Patterson has inspired many students, including Sherman Irby, who credits Patterson with laying the foundation for his successful career. Dr. Patterson's achievements have been honored with numerous awards, including the 2025 Jazz Griot Award from the Donald Meade Legacy Society. His contributions continue to enrich the Black American musical heritage.
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