Celebrating those who shaped the history of jazz in Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis
Jazz Hall of Fame

The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame is a legacy project curated by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation. Its mission started in 1998 to recognize, celebrate and remember those who have made significant long-term contributions to the Indianapolis jazz music scene. This list includes a collection of artists ranging from international jazz luminaries to Indy-based innovators who shaped and continue to shape the jazz world. This list includes notable musicians, educators, bandleaders, composers, photographers, and historians. New members are nominated and inducted into the Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame each year. 

The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame is a work in progress!

As a trusted jazz source, the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation strives to provide accurate and comprehensive documentation of Indy’s rich jazz legacy. If you have more information, we are continually seeking new information and perspectives on IJF Jazz Hall of Fame winners.

Contact us to request changes, updates, or additions at info@indyjazzfest.net.

Inductee Biographies

The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame will continue to evolve as new material is discovered, confirmed, and added to the site. We are always looking for content contributions! These include photos, videos, and links to more resources.

A special thanks to contributions from author/historian David Leander Williams and his book Indianapolis Jazz: The Masters, Legends and Legacy of Indiana Avenue, Kyle Long and his radio programs Cultural Manifesto and Echos of Indiana Avenue, as well as NUVO, Indy Star, Indiana Historical Society, and Indianapolis Recorder. Information was also collected from musician websites, Wikipedia, personal conversations with families and students, and Hall of Fame inductee interviews. 

We extend special thanks to Indiana photographers Mark Sheldon, Larry Goshen, Royce Campbell, and David Olive for allowing us to use their impactful photography. 

Induction Ceremony

Annually, IJF Hall of Fame winners are recognized at our Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame induction ceremony and represent the best of the best. These individuals have made a significant impact on the Indianapolis Jazz scene. These award ceremonies include live jazz performances and have taken place at Indy Jazz Fest, The Jazz Kitchen, the Schrott Center for the Arts, the Indiana Landmarks Center, and the Madam Walker Legacy Center.

Hall of Fame Nominations

Once a year, nominations are evaluated and voted on by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation legacy committee, IJF board members, and staff. 

We encourage new suggestions as we highlight significant contributors to the Indianapolis Jazz scene.

If you would like to nominate a candidate, please fill out the Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame Nomination Form.

Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame
Nomination Form: