National Endowment for the Arts Statement on the Death of NEA Jazz Master Abdullah Ibrahim

Washington, DC-It is with great sadness that the National Endowment for the Arts acknowledges the passing of pianist, composer, and 2019 NEA Jazz Master Abdullah Ibrahim. Ibrahim combined the rhythmic influences of South Africa with jazz improvisation to create his spiritually enriching music, whether performing solo, with a trio, a full band, or an orchestra. This blend of the traditional and the modern was reflected in his distinctive style, harmonies, and musical vocabulary.

In a 2019 podcast with the Arts Endowment, Ibrahim said: "[J]azz music from my perspective is the highest developed form of music ever in the history of the planet. And this is what jazz music does. It really gives you that insight into yourself because you constantly challenge yourself."

Learn more about Abdullah Ibrahim's life and music, including a video tribute to him, on arts.gov.