John Thomas Cooper Jr., born May 14, 1963, in Whittier, California, is an
American composer and multi-reedist. Cooper studied composition and saxophone at
Fullerton College and began his professional career with various ensembles in
Los Angeles. He later transferred to California State University, earning a BA
in music education and clarinet in 1987. In 1989, he joined the United States
Army Jazz Knights as a saxophonist and staff arranger, performing at
high-profile events. Cooper's notable collaborations include work with Sean
Ardoin, Aaron Neville, and Christian McBride, as we...