Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
The French government has inducted Ahmad Jamal into its prestigious Order of the Arts and Letters, naming him Officier de L’Ordre Des Arts et Des Lettres (Officer, Order of Arts and Letters).
French Culture Minister Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres honored the Pittsburgh-born pianist, arranger, composer and producer for his accomplishments in “American Classical Music.” The Order of Arts and Letters is one of four French ministerial orders and the highest distinction for artistic or literary contributions. It was established in 1957 to recognize distinguished artists and writers and others who have contributed significantly to furthering the arts in France and around the world.
In being nominated to the rank of officer, Jamal joins some of the most important American artists and writers in recent history, including Ornette Coleman, Ralph Waldo Ellison, William Faulkner, Ella Fitzgerald, Allen Ginsberg and Patti Smith.
Jamal is “deeply moved by this bestowal” and he accepts the medal as a reflection on his “beautiful relationship over the years with France and its people.” For over a decade now, Jamal has released his recordings on Paris-based Dreyfus Records. His latest is After Fajr, an exploration of the bond between his religious beliefs, (in the Islamic faith, ‘Fajr’ is the obligatory salah before sunrise—the first of five prayers a day) and his musical essences.
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
“The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.
Aug 18, 2026 2:15 PM
Indian jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia has been released after being unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken…
Percussionist Poncho Sanchez was among the artists scheduled to perform at the now-canceled inaugural LA Jazz Festival.
Aug 11, 2026 12:53 PM
The inaugural LA Jazz Festival, originally scheduled to run Aug. 7–23 with dozens of events across Los Angeles’…
Bertoncini was a specialist and advocate for the nylon-string acoustic guitar, turning down high-profile opportunities that were unsuited to the sound and techniques that he used with that instrument.
Sep 1, 2026 11:06 AM
Gene Bertoncini, an esteemed jazz guitarist, composer, arranger and educator, died Aug. 29 at the Lillian Booth Actors…
Jessica Molaskey and John Pizzarelli with Tony Bennett at their wedding reception in 1998.
Aug 4, 2026 12:32 PM
Well, what can be said about Tony Bennett that you don’t already know? As I type this, I’m listening to Tony…
