May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
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.
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
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Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
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The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
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Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
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Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
