Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
At a press conference this week, the Los Angeles Philharmonic announced that Herbie Hancock will succeed bassist Christian McBride as the third Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association.
“It is a great honor to be selected as the next Creative Chair for Jazz, and follow in the footsteps of Christian McBride, who has presented programming of incredible breadth and talent,” Hancock said. “I intend to continue this tradition and also bring to fruition new ideas and one-of-a-kind programs in two of the finest venues for live music - Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl.” MO< “We are truly privileged to have such a highly-regarded musician of the caliber of Herbie Hancock to follow Christian McBride as our next Creative Chair for Jazz,” said Deborah Borda, President of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association. "We are thrilled to welcome him to our organization, and deeply grateful for Christian’s guidance."
McBride is excited to pass the baton to Hancock to lead the jazz programming for the L.A. Philharmonic.
“My tenure as Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic has truly been one of the most rewarding of my career,” says McBride. “It was an unbelievable opportunity to present unprecedented jazz programs. Having the legendary Herbie Hancock succeed me in this position is an astounding honor and a testament to the LA Phil’s firm commitment to promoting the best that jazz has to offer.”
Peplowski first came to prominence in legacy swing bands, including the final iteration of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, before beginning a solo career in the late 1980s.
Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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Lettuce, from left: Eric Coomes, Adam Deitch, Ryan Zoidis, Eric Bloom, Adam Smirnoff and Nigel Hall
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