Jonathan Winfree is a gifted musician with an unusually strong command of his craft and a fully-formed musical identity. His extraordinary ear for rhythm was evidenced very early and he emerged with a demonstrated proficiency in jazz, gospel, fusion, hip hop, rock, reggae, funk and R&B. “My instrument of choice is drums, but I never want to be considered as “just a drummer”. I’m an innovator and create music from the heart”, says Jonathan.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Jonathan began playing professionally at the age of 6, but didn’t begin formal lessons until the age of 12. He received the “Outstanding Soloist Award” in 2009 from The Tri-C Jazz Fest Education Days and a $500 Scholarship to the Tri-C Jazz Studies Program. Jonathan was a drum instructor for The Abundant Life International Church “2009 Music Clinic”. He also received the “Outstanding Soloist Award” in 2010 from The Tri-C Jazz Fest and The Lakeland Community College Jazz Festival.
Jonathan’s musicianship is well known throughout the northeastern Ohio area and he has an ever increasing fan base. Within this year (2014), Jonathan has had the privilege to share the stage with and play for national recording artist such as: Eric Roberson, Todd Dulaney, Jonathan Nelson, Tonya Baker and most recently season 7’s winner of “Sunday Best” Geoffrey Golden. In addition to musical performance, Jonathan has gained significant experience in other roles regarding music. These include: Music Director, Arranger and Producer.
Jonathan Winfree has appeared on the following CD projects, Sestor, “Juglistic Hip-Hop” (2009), Shaun Williams & Joyful Noise “Live” (2012), J. T. Hairston & Disappearing Act (2014) and co-produced International recording artist “Emmanuel Ubani’s” debut album “Simply Put”(2014) and more.
In addition to playing and performing, Jonathan also currently gives private drum lessons and is is working on starting his own production company. He recognizes that God is the source of his gifting and says, “I am excited about the future; the sky isn’t even the limit!”