The world of jazz lost a bright star on Saturday, March 12, 2022, when iconic pianist/composer Jessica Williams passed at her home in Yakima, Washington with her devoted husband Duncan at her side. She was 73 years old.
Williams was born in Baltimore, MD in 1948, and began playing piano at age 4. Classically trained, she went on to study classical music and ear training with Richard Aitken and George Bellows at the Peabody Conservatory of Music. From an early age, Williams showed an ability to see musical notes as colors, consistent with synesthesia. This can best be described as senses intersecting with one another, as in hearing a musical note and perceiving it as color.
Williams is nearly unrivaled in her ability to marry a classical level of technical proficiency to her joyous spontaneity and endless sense of wonder.
This painting by Picasso represents for me Jessica Williams' style as a jazz pianist. Like Picasso, she knew exactly what she was doing, and expressed herself in a rather angular and revolutionary way.
In the Spring of 1992, I discovered Jessica Williams when she was the guest pianist on Marian McPartland’s “Piano Jazz” broadcast on NPR. I remember being captivated by her amazing technique, but more by her edgy dissonance and creative humor (subtle musical quotes). I quickly searched for her available CDs and have enjoyed listening to the “live performances” recorded on them. I was so shocked to hear of her death on Fresh Air last week. Terry Gross’ complete interview (rebroadcast from 1997) can be heard here. I highly recommend taking time to listen to it.
Unfortunately, Williams' performance career took a down turn in 2012.
Severe spinal problems sent Williams through major surgery in 2012. The medical procedures and recovery were lengthy, complicated and expensive; she ended up having to sell her beloved Yamaha piano.
Music History accounts for legendary keyboard improvisors: Bach, Chopin, and Liszt. I believe Jessica Williams falls in line with the greatest. Luckily for us, her amazing musical mind is preserved through her recordings.
CPW
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