On Monday, May 15, 2023, The Jazz Gallery held its annual Honors Gala at the Cosmopolitan Club in NYC. WBGO's Jonathan Chimene was there to enjoy and capture the evening with photographs.
Five luminaries of the jazz world were celebrated in a sold-out room filled with great music and appreciation for both the talents and accomplishments of the honorees, and the ongoing mission of The Jazz Gallery, a small but vital organization, known for "where the future is present."
Three highly accomplished artists were honored with Lifetime Achievement awards: Tom Harrell, presented by Joe Lovano; Joanne Brackeen, presented by Chris Potter; and Henry Threadgill, presented by George Lewis. A stellar group of musicians saluted each honoree with a musical tribute skillfully curated by the Jazz Gallery's highly acclaimed and award winning Artistic Director, Rio Sakairi.
In addition, Robin Bell-Stevens, Director and Executive Producer of Jazzmobile, the oldest not-for-profit arts organization created solely to present, preserve, and promote jazz through education and performance programs, was awarded the Gallery's Contribution to the Arts award. Perhaps the biggest applause of the night came for Janet Luhrs, celebrating her 10th year as the Executive Director of the Jazz Gallery. Janet received the Founders Award, presented in honor of the Gallery's three founders: the late Dale Fitzgerald and Roy Hargrove, as well as one of WBGO's own, singer and host Lezlie Harrison. It was a joyous evening filled with great music and love for one of New York's most beloved and vital presenting organizations.
Enjoy a gallery of photos from Jonathan Chimene and Hank O’Neal, above.
