Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Pianist, Educator Hal Galper Dies at 87
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
SAN FRANCISCO—Only a year after facing possible cancellation, the North Beach Jazz Fest is approaching its 13th year with an exciting five-day lineup.
The event will feature music in the city’s clubs and restaurants, centering on the festival’s flagship venues, Mojito and Washington Square Park. Featured performers include organist Reuben Wilson, drummer Bernard Purdie and guitarist Grant Green, Jr.; the Realistic Orchestra; and percussionist John Santos.
The North Beach Jazz Fest was in jeopordy last year after permit roadblocks almost forced its cancellation. But public outcry, along with help from Mayor Gavin Newsom, ultimately ensured the survival of the event.
The festival runs July 25–29. Cover prices vary. For more information, visit sunsettickets.com/images/nbjazz.
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
Jordan was a dyed-in-the-wool bebopper whose formative musical experiences were with Charlie Parker.
Aug 12, 2025 10:24 AM
Sheila Jordan, a vocalist who was celebrated for her scatting and lyric-improvising abilities, died Aug. 11 at her home…
“I don’t guess I’m going to excite you; I know I’m going to excite you,” Palmieri said in an August 1994 DownBeat feature.
Aug 12, 2025 10:33 AM
Famed Latin jazz composer, bandleader and pianist Eddie Palmieri passed away in his New Jersey home on Aug. 6. He was…
“What I got from Percy was the dignity of playing the bass,” Buster Williams said of Percy Heath.
Aug 26, 2025 1:53 PM
Buster Williams, who at the age of 83 has been on the scene for 65 years, had never done a Blindfold Test. The first…
