Raised in California's Santa Ynez Valley, John began playing piano at age 11. He studied music performance at San Diego State University, earning a degree in Jazz Studies. While in San Diego, John became involved in the local music scene, performing with a variety of musicians, including the brilliant but short-lived Latin/Brazilian jazz group Koro Libre, and acclaimed singer-songwriter, Joy Eden Harrison.

In 1997 he relocated to Chicago, and quickly became part of city's jazz scene. The year 2000 saw the release of John's debut CD, Contemplation on Astarte Records. A moving set of original instrumental compositions, Contemplation combines the ambience and melodic sensibilities of new age and pop music with the harmonic richness and improvisational aspects of jazz. The album proudly features guest artist Steve Rodby (of the Pat Metheny Group) on bass.

In addition to work as a jazz pianist, John is currently a faculty member at the prestigious Old Town School of Folk Music, tours with the award-winning comedy troupe Wavelength, and is the pianist for Lakeview Presbyterian Church.

John's second CD, And So On , was in November of 2003. He can also be heard on the latest CD from The Grandma Project.