Billy Strayhorn celebrated at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles.

On Wednesday December 7th, an amazing and entertaining Billy Strayhorn tribute show was performed by Marlon Martinez and the Marlonius Jazz Orchestra at LA’s GRAMMY museum. It was a great show. Attended by several Strayhorn family members, Billy Strayhorn great niece Robin Strayhorn commented, “It was really well done and so great to see how much Billy’s music is appreciated — Marlon did a great job at describing why his compositions are so diverse, innovative & compelling.” Another Strayhorn great niece Tameika Strayhorn, had the opportunity to represent the Strayhorn family and say a few words that were well received. In talking to bassist Marlon Martinez, the format of the program allowed him to include not only a preview of his upcoming album: Marlonius/Strayhorn, but also let him promote the tremendous Billy Strayhorn 8-part video series “Ever Up and Onward”, created by him and the Colburn School, of which Marlon is an alumni. Kudos to Marlon, the Colburn School staff, The Marlonius Jazz Orchestra and the GRAMMY museum for a great night and tribute honoring Billy Strayhorn!