Meet Paul Pieper

Paul Pieper is the Founder and Director of The Jazz Workshop, which he established in 2007 to share his passion for jazz and create opportunities for musicians to collaborate. Based in the Washington DC area, Paul has successfully grown the Workshop into a thriving community, now serving over 100 adult jazz learners weekly. His vision of providing an inclusive space for jazz education and performance continues to inspire musicians of all levels who gather to explore and celebrate this dynamic art form.

My Story

I discovered my lifelong passion at age 13 when I first picked up the guitar in 1985. Under the guidance of an inspiring teacher, I quickly found myself drawn into the captivating world of jazz. This wasn't just a hobby – I knew early on that music would become my life's purpose. By 19, I was playing my first professional gig, and the experience left me completely enchanted with the jazz scene.

Immersing myself in the company of professional musicians opened my eyes to the true demands and beauty of jazz. I dedicated myself wholly to mastering this sophisticated art form, building a repertoire of hundreds of jazz standards and seizing every opportunity to perform with fellow musicians.

A defining moment came in 1995 when, at age 23, I earned 2nd place in the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Guitar Competition. Being evaluated by the very musicians who had inspired my journey was both humbling and validating, cementing my place in the jazz community. This achievement opened doors to numerous opportunities, leading to a fulfilling career filled with performances and private instruction, both locally and internationally.

As I entered my thirties, my passion for teaching evolved. I envisioned creating a space where musicians of all instruments could experience the joy and camaraderie I'd found in professional jazz. This dream materialized in July 2007 with the founding of The Jazz Workshop. Since then, I've had the privilege of leading over 10,000 two-hour sessions, touching countless lives through music. The Workshop embodies my mission to make jazz accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience level.

Now, approaching our 18th year, I'm already dreaming up ways to celebrate our 20th anniversary. Whatever shape these festivities take, you can be certain they'll be filled with the vibrant sounds of live jazz that have defined our journey.

Want to see the versatility that jazz training can bring? Check out my unique take on Bobby Timmons' classic "Dat Dere," where I perform every instrument in a quintet arrangement. This video showcases the multifaceted nature of jazz musicianship that we cultivate at The Jazz Workshop, enjoy!