Ellis Marsalis Jr.
Pianist
Influential jazz artist who never sought the limelight. He was a Friday fixture at New Orleans' Snug Harbor jazz bistro.
He began as a tenor saxophonist, but he embraced the piano in high school.
He became a sought-after teacher who combined philosophy with technique, placing an emphasis on listening and experimentation.
He and his wife, Delores Ferdinand, parented six sons, four of whom became jazz musicians.
He inspired many students, some of whom made names for themselves like Harry Connick Jr.