In 1994, Jesse entered the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Tx where he was encouraged to pursue jazz piano through his teacher Charles Rhinhardt, a local pianist, and Robert Glasper, a fellow classmate. This encouragement proved to be important for development as Jesse has made Jazz his first love.

 

After high school, Jesse entered the University of New Orleans' (UNO) music program where he studied under the watchful eye of Ellis Marsalis, Peter Martin, and Doug Bickel. Jesse has performed with Donald Harrison, Jason and Delfeayo Marsalis, Harold Battiste, Alvin Batiste, Stefon Harris, Carmen Lundy, Vanessa Rubin, Wess Anderson, Tim Warfield, and Hannibal to name a few.

 

The Next Generation (begun by Harold Battiste) has been compared to Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers in New Orleans. The focus of the music is the 2nd 50 years of New Orleans Jazz. Jesse has since taken over the direction of The Next Generation with new young talent in New Orleans. In addition to leading the Next Generation, Jesse also serves as a professor at Tulane University in New Orleans where he's also leading and grooming young musicians from all over the country.

 

Jesse can humbly note his regular performances in New Orleans jazz clubs like Snug Harbor, The Funky Butt, Sweet Lorraines, The New Orleans Hilton Riverside and The Prime Example. From straight-ahead to contemporary jazz, funk, and R&B, Jesse continues to bridge gaps the styles and generations.