Patriarch Of New Orleans Musical Family, Ellis Marsalis, Dies At 85

WWNO - New Orleans Public Radio | By Gwen Thompkins

Published April 2, 2020 at 5:01 AM EDT

Ellis Marsalis, jazz pianist, educator and patriarch of the Marsalis family, has died. His music students included Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison, Harry Connick, Jr., and 4 of his sons.

Corrected: April 2, 2020 at 12:00 AM EDT

In this report, we incorrectly refer to Ellis Marsalis III as Ellis Marsalis Jr.

Gwen Thompkins

Gwen Thompkins hosts Music Inside Out on WWNO in New Orleans.

SUSTAIN what matters. BUILD what’s next.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.