Ellis Marsalis dead from corona virus


From The Washington Post a few minutes ago:

Ellis Marsalis, a jazz pianist and the patriarch of a prominent New Orleans musical family, died Wednesday after being hospitalized with symptoms of covid-19.

Marsalis, 85, had been tested for the coronavirus and results were pending, according to Nola.com. He was considered a mainstay in the city’s jazz scene for decades and taught many future musical stars, including his four sons, Branford, Wynton, Delfeayo and Jason.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell (D) called him a “legend.”

“He was the prototype of what we mean when we talk about New Orleans jazz,” she said on Twitter, adding, “words aren’t sufficient to describe the art, the joy & the wonder he showed the world.”

kacomess
This from an online news service.

“Pneumonia was the actual thing that caused his demise," Ellis Marsalis III said. "But it was pneumonia brought on by COVID-19."

Make of of it what you will.

Dead is dead.

Rest In Peace Ellis Marsalis. You and your remarkable sons brought musical joy to millions of appreciative music lovers over the past several decades.

Charles

I took a masterclass with him; it’s funny though, I read he died years ago.  This is weird.  He was old as dirt back in 1988.  
my beautiful wife and I were lucky to see him and his sons perform at the Davies center while e was entertains pre performance guests with guests!  We were privileged to meet them and view their performance which led me to admire Jan’s!   The families showed how jazz encompasses so much more than the beautiful jaws known in jazz clubs but so layers and layers more!  He helped built a dynasty now moved on by his talented family!  Everyone should hear all of their music because your will be amazed as we were!  We will cherish both the night and our cherished momentos 
And we will say a special prayer for the family tonight!   A great man and a great family!
cheers
james and janice howard
Cakebread Cellars