John Bishop

John Bishop is a Seattle-based drummer, educator, and record label owner who’s been a driving force in Northwest jazz for over four decades. As a musician, he’s performed with a who’s who of jazz greats, including Lee Konitz, Bobby Hutcherson, and Hal Galper, and has appeared on more than 100 albums. Bishop’s unique style shines brightest in collaborative trios, such as Hal Galper’s “rubato” trio, the band Scenes with John Stowell, and New Stories—each group known for its commitment to collective storytelling through improvisation. In 1997, Bishop founded Origin Records, a label praised for supporting creative artists and releasing acclaimed jazz recordings. He’s earned recognition as a “Jazz Hero” by the Jazz Journalists Association and was inducted into the Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame. His recent album releases, like Antwerp, showcase his ongoing passion for musical collaboration and the joy of creation.

Outside of performing, Bishop is also known for his work as a graphic designer and festival presenter. His dedication to the jazz community extends beyond the stage, with a mission to spotlight the best music and musicians in the Seattle area and beyond.

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