NEA Jazz Masters Fellowships

The NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship is the highest honor that our nation bestows on jazz artists. Each year since 1982, the program has elevated to its ranks a select number of living legends who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of jazz.

Musicians who represent a range of styles and instruments will be honored. In addition, one fellowship—the A. B. Spellman NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship for Jazz Advocacy—will be given to an individual who has made major contributions to the appreciation, knowledge, and advancement of the American jazz art form. In 2005, this award was designated in honor of A. B. Spellman, a jazz writer, accomplished poet, innovative arts administrator, and former NEA Deputy Chairman who has dedicated much of his life to bringing the joy and artistry of jazz to all Americans.

The NEA Jazz Masters Fellowships are awarded to living individuals based on nominations from the public, including members of the jazz community. We encourage nominations of a broad range of individuals who have been impactful to the field of jazz through vocal and instrumental performance, creative leadership, mentorship, and education. Successful nominees will demonstrate significant contributions to the art form through their body of work in the field of jazz.