![JR](/sites/default/files/styles/faculty_profile_image/public/faculty-images/jonathan_richards_head_shot.jpg)
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jonathan is an active member of the music industry as a bassist, composer and educator.
He is a graduate of the USC Thornton School of Music, where he studied with classical bass virtuoso Nico Abondolo and jazz legend John Clayton. He holds a Master’s Degree from Cal Arts and is also on faculty at Pasadena City College. As a touring and studio musician, he has had the privilege of working with an array of musical artists, including David Foster, Khalid, Toni Braxton, Joe LaBarbera, Steve Lehman, Snuffy Walden, and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. He has been featured on numerous recording projects for albums, television, and film. These include Beyoncé’s The Gift, Katharine McPhee’s PBS Soundstage Special, The American Music Awards, and scoring sessions for shows like "The Night Of" (HBO), "Mrs. America" (HULU), "Dear White People" (Netfilx), and many more. Jonathan is passionate about education and engaging with his students. He is excited to lead Occidental’s ensembles in many creative endeavors.