Jazz Drummer Eddie Marshall was chosen to receive the first Annual SFJAZZ Beacon Award at the 18th Annual San Francisco Jazz Festival this past November. Marshall was quoted as saying the award was “totally unexpected . . . It’s not often a side man, like a drummer, gets an award.” Yet according to SFJAZZ, “he is the embodiment of the beacon . . . he’s extended jazz in the Bay Area into exciting new areas and inspired countless other musicians.” The Beacon Award, presented by Stella Artois, is intended to recognize those who have influenced and helped to preserve a place for jazz in the Bay Area.
Marshall is known for his works with The Fourth Way during the 70’s as well as his works with Bobby McFerrin and other jazz greats Stan Getz and Toshiko Akiyoshi. His current ensemble, Holy Mischief, is spreading its influence throughout the Bay Area.
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