Wynton Marsalis To Receive Philadelphia's Marian Anderson Award In November
By Molly Daly
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Mayor Michael Nutter announced this year's recipient of the prestigious Marian Anderson award Monday afternoon at the Sofitel Hotel at 17th and Sansom.
KYW's Molly Daly reports jazz fans, in particular, will likely be pleased.
The award, named for the pioneering Philadelphia contralto, recognizes critically acclaimed artists who are making the world better through leadership in humanitarian causes and artistic achievements. Nutter says Wynton Marsalis, nine time Grammy-winning trumpeter, educator and producer who spearheaded post-Katrina relief efforts in his native New Orleans, fits the bill.
"He's also given to organizations that help battered women, homeless children, and provided artistic experiences for people with physical or mental challenges," said Nutter.
Since Marian Anderson often credited the help of others in advancing her career, the award also offers support to promising young artists with a Young Artist Study Grant Program. This year's recipient, 15-year-old violinist Akili Farrow will study this summer at the Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan. If her performance at the end of the program is any indication, she's already well on her way.
The Marian Anderson Award Gala will be held November 10th.
