Geri Allen Dies at 60

Geri Allen, an intrepid pianist-composer and dedicated educator whose discography includes nearly 20 albums as a leader/soloist and a wide variety of collaborations, died June 27 in Philadelphia. The cause was cancer, according to various reports. Allen had turned 60 two weeks ago.

Allen was still active as a performer as recently as this spring, when she toured Europe with fellow pianist McCoy Tyner. Her most recent recording as a leader was 2013’s Grand River Crossings: Motown & Motor City Inspirations (Motéma). Last year, Motéma released Perfection by the Murray, Allen and Carrington Power Trio.