Jim McNeely, Innovative Composer for Jazz Big Bands, Dies at 76

Jim McNeely, a renowned pianist and Grammy-winning composer, passed away at the age of 76. McNeely was widely acclaimed for his innovative work with jazz big bands, creating compositions that pushed the boundaries of line, harmony, rhythm, and musical structure. Throughout his career, McNeely collaborated with numerous acclaimed jazz artists and ensembles, including the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, for whom he served as composer-in-residence. His works were praised for their ability to introduce "new ideas" and challenge the traditional conventions of the genre. McNeely's contributions to the jazz community were recognized with numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship. His passing has been mourned by fellow musicians and fans alike, who have celebrated his legacy as an innovative and influential figure in the world of jazz composition.
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