Education
D'earth attended Harvard University briefly only to drop out and pursue his musical career.
university professor jazz musician
D'earth attended Harvard University briefly only to drop out and pursue his musical career.
He currently resides in Charlottesville, Virginia. In his early years he played in Bob Moses' innovative bands. He co-founded the group Cosmology (Vanguard Records) with bandmates drummer Robert Jospe and singer Dawn Thompson (whom D'earth later married) His is also known for his work with musicians such as Miles Davis, Buddy Rich, Dave Matthews Band, and Emily Remler.
D'earth is the Director of Jazz Performance at the University of Virginia as well as the artist in residence at Virginia Commonwealth University. D'earth was also the music teacher at The Tandem school in Charlottesville Va at least from 82-85, and influenced many of his students while also teaching them to step out of their comfort zones and experience many musical styles they wouldn't have otherwise. He plays Thursday nights in downtown Charlottesville at Miller's with other musicians including: JC Kuhl, Pete Spaar, Jamal Millner, Devonne Harris, Brian Caputo, Wells Hanley, Adam Larrabee, Brian Jones, and many others.
He also plays at Fellinis No. 9 every first Saturday of the month with Devonne Harris (drums), Bob Hallahan (Piano), and Pete Spaar (Upright Bass). In addition to being a prominent jazz figure in Charlottesville, John can be found making frequent appearances with younger up-and-coming players as well as older mainstay musicians alike in the Richmond, Virginia area.
