
2012 JJA Jazz Awards
Since its creation in 1987 the Jazz Journalists Association, a non-profit organization of approximately 300 members – professional journalists, students, industry associates and supporting institutions – has dedicated itself to the promotion, divulgation and appreciation of jazz. Each year, starting from 1997, they have awarded the JJA Award, a prize to excellence in both music and journalism. Here’s the list of winners of the 2012 JJA Awards, the most prestigious distinction in jazz music.

with Rudresh Mahanthappa
Alto saxophonist and composer Rudresh Mahanthappa took a little time out with us just before performing at the 26th April Jazz Festival this year. We spoke about his music, collaborations and improvisation.
The first of many musicians who’ll be Taking The Stand at Jazz Club Jury.

Rudresh Mahanthappa at April Jazz 2012
Rudresh Mahanthappa is a talent that some will love, some will like and others will simply miss out on. Samdhi, performed at April Jazz 2012, was received with mixed responses from the audience. The Avant-Garde nature of the offering is not for everyone admittedly, but the catalog of work including his latest, Samdhi, in addition to where the direction of his music is heading, is not to be missed. Leave preconceptions at home, experimenting live is engrossing and the core of improvising set at heady levels.