Sullivan Fortner solo

Own compositions

A firm belief in the swing and the power of the blues are at the basis of Sullivan Fortner's piano playing. That blossomed in the gospel church in New Orleans. For years he accompanied star players of American jazz such as Roy Hargrove, Christian Scott and Stefon Harris.

In doing so, he developed his versatile, unprecedented virtuoso style. Now he comes to the fore with a solo performance, mostly with his own compositions. Sullivan Fortner won a Grammy for his contribution to the album The Window, which he made with the young jazz diva Cécile McLorin Salvant. Together they gave a memorable duo performance on our stage. He also played here with Roy Hargrove, John Scofield, Peter Bernstein and Ben Wendel.

In 2019 he took first place in the Downbeat Critics Polls in no fewer than two categories: Rising Star Jazz Artist and Rising Star Pianist. A year later, he became number one in the Rising Star Arranger category. Sullivan Fortner released two albums under his own name on the legendary Impulse! label. “Fortner's ability to simultaneously project his own voice and reflect those of others reveals an empathy.” — DownBeat Magazine