Jon C. Gardner (b. 1987) is a composer, arranger, highly active saxophonist, and sought-after music educator based in Philadelphia, PA. He earned music degrees from the University of Valley Forge and UMass-Amherst, where he studied under Jeffery W. Holmes and Guggenheim recipient Dr. Felipe Salles. During his studies, Jon focused on copyist and arranging techniques, as well as jazz ensemble rehearsal methods. He is the leader of the award-winning Gardyn Jazz Orchestra, which has released two albums: Gardyn Jazz Orchestra (2023) and Vinyl Brews (2024). The Gardyn Jazz Orchestra, known for its frequent performances, continues to be one of the most sought-after big bands in the region.

An acclaimed composer, Jon most recently won the international Ithaca College Jazz Composition Contest. He has built a reputation as a sought-after arranger, composer, and saxophonist, frequently performing with the Gardyn Jazz Orchestra, which remains a cornerstone of his musical output. His expertise as a jazz clinician has made him a respected figure in the jazz community, where he is often invited to share his insights and knowledge through clinics and masterclasses.

Jon has also served as an educator for various collegiate and K-12 ensembles in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Poland. He is known for his dynamic approach to teaching and his ability to inspire students, both in the classroom and through his work as a jazz clinician. His compositions and arrangements can be heard across a variety of high school and collegiate settings, including marching band shows, jazz ensembles, and orchestral works. Notable ensembles he has composed for include: Beatlemania Now! and The Penny Lane Horns, Dan Gabel and The Abletones, The Hickory Brass Quintet, Jump City Jazz Orchestra, the University of Massachusetts Amherst Jazz Ensemble 1 and Studio Orchestra, the Ithaca College Jazz Ensemble, and his own Gardyn Jazz Orchestra.

When not immersed in music, Jon enjoys spending time with his wife, Alayna, and their dog, Nani-Dolce. Together, they love exploring different cities and experiencing new cultures.