Sam Parnin is a composer, organist, and steel pannist who draws inspiration from many musical traditions including classical, electronic, jazz, sacred, and afro-caribbean. Cultivating an energetic and harmonically rich sound, he regularly writes music that invites curiosity and inclusion. As an artist who is committed to fostering lifelong creative connections, Sam has collaborated with musicians and organizations including Mosaic Winds, Indiana University Percussion Ensemble, the Brent Wallarab Jazz Ensemble, the Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra, and the Red Note Ensemble. 

​

In 2020, Sam formed the Sam Parnin Big Band, self-producing two EPs of original compositions: Canasta (2020) and Thinking Out Loud (2022). His band also premiered his piece Wingdings in the fall of 2023 at the Jacobs School of Music.

​

In 2023, Sam formed The New Distraction, a jazz fusion quartet featuring Dylan Shane, Jake Brokaw, and John Sevy. The band released its eponymous debut EP in 2026, featuring original compositions from Parnin.

Currently, Sam resides in Chicago where he serves as the Principal Organist and Bell Choir Director at North Park Covenant Church. 

​

Honors and awards include: Mayes Music Composer Competition (winner, 2024);  ISJAC/USF Owen Prize in Jazz Composition (winner, 2024); SCI Jazz Composition Award (honorable mention, 2023); MayesMusic Composer Competition (finalist, 2023).