On Tuesday February 18, 2025, the Mellon Foundation announced a multifaceted $35 million initiative aimed at supporting the cultural preservation of jazz, championing the legacy of the artists who have played a pivotal role in its formation, and strengthening the broader jazz ecosystem.

This fellowship not only recognizes the contributions of jazz artists but also ensures that their stories, music, and legacies will be preserved for generations to come. With a lifetime achievement award, an unrestricted grant, and personalized support, this program is a testament to the power of jazz and its lasting impact.

The 2025 Jazz Legacies Fellows are pianist George Cables, pianist Valerie Capers, saxophonist George Coleman, cellist Akua Dixon, guitarist Manty Ellis, drummer Billy Hart, trumpeter Tom Harrell, pianist Bertha Hope, drummer Roger Humphries, vocalist Carmen Lundy, pianist Amina Claudine-Myers, multi-reedist Roscoe Mitchell, pianist Johnny O’Neal, drummer Shannon Powell, trombonist Julian Priester, trumpeter Dizzy Reece, drummer Herlin Riley, pianist Michele Rosewoman, pianist Dom Salvador and bassist Reggie Workman.

https://www.mellon.org/news/mellon-launches-35-million-jazz-initiative

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