Jon Irabagon
Saxophonist Jon Irabagon, winner of the 2008 Thelonious Monk Competition, has been nominated by the Jazz Journalists Association (JJA) in both the “Up and Coming Artist” and “Tenor Saxophonist of the Year” categories for its prestigious 2011 Jazz Awards.
In the “Up and Coming Artist” category, Irabagon joins such talented musicians as Ambrose Akinmusire, Darius Jones and Gerald Clayton in being recognized as those to watch in coming years. Other nominees in the “Tenor Saxophonist of the Year” category include such legends as Chris Potter, Joe Lovano, Sonny Rollins, Tony Malaby and Wayne Shorter. Award winners are selected by JJA members who have until May 11th to vote.
“In looking at who has been nominated in both of these categories and the incredible body of work these artists have put out, the cliché that it’s an honor just to have been nominated is true,” said Irabagon. “It’s absolutely amazing to have my name on the same list as those who I see as the best and most thought-provoking musicians in jazz today.” Continue reading
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