Meet the Instructors

Get to know the experienced musicians and educators who make JAM an inspiring place to learn jazz.

Paul Carr

Founder & Executive Director
Coltrane Big Band | Improvisation & Woodwinds

Paul Carr is the Executive Director of the Jazz Academy of Music and a nationally recognized saxophonist, educator, and bandleader. A Houston native and graduate of Howard University, Paul has recorded eight critically acclaimed albums and is known for his hard-swinging, soulful post-bop style. In 2002, he founded JAM with the mission of advancing and preserving jazz through education and performance. At JAM, Paul directs the Coltrane Big Band and teaches Improvisation and Woodwinds, inspiring students to develop their musical voice with discipline and heart. His students have gone on to attend top conservatories such as Juilliard, Eastman, and NEC, and many have launched successful careers in music.

Chris Latona

Instructor – Combos, Drums, Piano, Mingus Big Band

Christopher Latona is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist and educator who teaches combos, drums, and piano at JAM. A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory, he is a skilled drummer and pianist known for his rhythmic versatility and collaborative energy. Chris directs the Mingus Big Band and brings a vibrant, groove-focused approach to ensemble work. Based in Brooklyn, NY, he performs professionally across the city and co-leads the Latona Brothers, a group that fuses straight-ahead jazz with D.C.’s native Go-Go sound. His teaching emphasizes creative risk-taking, tight ensemble play, and deep listening—skills that prepare young musicians for both the stage and the studio.

Andrew Latona

Instructor – Jazz Idiom, Improvisation, Bass & Rhythm Guitar

Andrew Latona is an accomplished guitarist, bassist, and improviser who brings a deep understanding of jazz language and rhythm section playing to JAM. He teaches Jazz Idiom and Improvisation, specializing in bass and rhythm guitar. Raised in Silver Spring, MD, Andrew studied with Paul Wingo and earned his BFA from SUNY Purchase under the mentorship of Vic Juris. He was honored with the James Moody Scholarship and graduated as Outstanding Senior. Now based in Brooklyn, Andrew performs throughout NYC and co-leads the Latona Brothers. His teaching focuses on groove, harmony, and the art of musical conversation, helping students become expressive and intuitive jazz musicians.