Marian McPartland

Marian McPartland (1918–2013) was an English-born jazz pianist, composer, writer, and radio host. Raised in England, she moved to the United States during World War II and became a prominent figure in modern jazz. McPartland performed widely as a bandleader and collaborator, earning respect for her lyrical touch and adventurous improvising. She reached a broad audience as the longtime host of NPR’s *Piano Jazz*, where she interviewed and played duets with leading musicians across generations. Her career spanned decades, encompassing recordings, compositions, and writing that helped illuminate jazz history for listeners and readers alike.