MARY LOU WILLIAMS
THE MOTHER OF US ALL
Four decades since her death, the pianist and composer is just beginning to be recognized as a crucial contributor to the history of Jazz. We invite you to learn more about Mary Lou’s life, music and amazing legacy.
“They would go to her house, Dizzy, Bird [Charlie Parker], all the heavyweights talked to Mary Lou. Monk, they loved her. She taught them about arranging, she had concepts, she was very philosophical. She’s unsung as a person who really influenced them and when you talk to them — I talked to Dizzy, any musicians from that time — they always say, ‘Man, Mary Lou, she taught us a lot.’”
– Wynton Marsalis
Mary Lou Williams’ Zodiac Suite Nominated for Grammy Award in the Category of Best Classical Compendium
New York-based pianist Aaron Diehl and orchestral collective the Knights recreated Mary’s most celebrated work, Zodiac Suite, a portrait of the 12 astrological signs and a landmark in jazz-classical fusion. The album has received a Grammy nomination in the category of Best Classical Compendium: Zodiac Suite, Aaron Diehl Trio & The Knights; Eric Jacobsen, conductor; Aaron Diehl & Eric Jacobsen, producers.
Recent Articles:
The New York Times
Jazz and Classical Met in the 1940s, and We’re Still Catching Up
The Wall Street Journal
Reviving Mary Lou Williams’s Little-Known Masterpiece
MARY LOU WILLIAMS THE LADY WHO SWINGS THE BAND
The resurgence of international interest in Mary’s life and career in music continues. From a Showtime documentary to featured articles and essays and new recordings, Mary’s place in the music history is celebrated.
Mary Lou’s Playlist
“Anything you are, shows up in your music – jazz is whatever you are, playing yourself, being yourself, letting your thoughts come through.”
– Mary Lou Williams
Sheet Music
Mary Lou’s Influence
