The Recording Academy Issues Statement on Passing of Jazz Legend Gerald Wilson

The Recording Academy has issued a statement on the passing of jazz legend Gerald Wilson. The composer, arranger, big-band leader and musician passed away on Monday in Los Angeles at the age of 96.

September 10, 2014:

A musician, composer, arranger, and a 2004 Recording Academy President's Merit Award recipient, Gerald Wilson had an extraordinary career that spanned eight decades. A pioneer of jazz, he played trumpet in big bands and worked with legendary artists including Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, and Bobby Darin, among many others. One of the most sought after arrangers and composers, he scored motion pictures and television shows, and became known for his unique compositions.

He also had an innate ability to create entire pieces around individual performers, adapting to their styles and highlighting their unique talents. In addition to his prolific works as a musician, Wilson was also a generous educator, teaching jazz at several Southern California universities. He also was a guest conductor for the GRAMMY Foundation's GRAMMY Camp - Jazz Session program for high school students, and he participated in GRAMMY in the Schools panels. Our music community has lost one of its most passionate, dedicated and dynamic creators, and his impressive legacy will continue to teach and inspire. Our deepest sympathies go out to Wilson's family, friends, and all who have benefitted from his immense talent.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy

Photo Courtesy of The Recording Academy®/Wireimage.com © 2004. Photographed by: R. Diamond

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