R.I.P. to a jazz icon

Dave Brubeck, 1987

Jazz giant Dave Brubeck died this morning in Connecticut, one day before what would have been his 92nd birthday. Condolences go out to Iola Brubeck, their children and their families, and the jazz world at large.

Brubeck was a pianist, composer, rhythmic innovator and bandleader who worked comfortably both in jazz and classical circles. Many of his liturgical works were nothing short of brilliant.

Dave and Iola Brubeck

His Newport Jazz Festival record will never be broken. He appeared at Newport 29 or 30 times over the years - far, far more than any other headliner. He was there so often in the 1990s and 2000s that I lost count of the exact number.

Dave was as amiable and gracious as anyone I've ever known in jazz. He was a true gentleman and he shall be missed.

I'm sharing two of my favorite photos of Dave:

• The black & white performance shot was taken in June 1987 at George Wein's Newport Jazz Festival in Saratoga Springs, NY.
• The color shot of Dave and Iola Brubeck was taken in September 2004 at a Tanglewood Jazz Festival seminar in Lenox, MA.