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This week, FY23 Fellowship Recipient in Music Improvisation, saxophonist, Nick Mazzarella, was honored by Illinois Representative Theresa Mah (2nd District) at the National Museum of Mexican Art in a check presentation to the artist. The check presentation marked the kick off to a series of listening sessions the Illinois Arts Council Agency is leading this fall throughout the Chicagoland area to assess the impact and effectiveness of IACA programming and processes.
“With this award, we are recognizing Mr. Mazzarella’s wonderful additions to the arts in Illinois, both for the entertainment his work has brought to countless audiences, and for the impact he has made in our shared history,” Mah said. “From Sam Cooke to Mavis Staples, Illinois artists occupy a unique place in American music, and Mr. Mazzarella has made his own brilliant contribution to that tapestry. I feel privileged to offer him this honor.”
“Recognition and support is crucial for any artist." says Mazzarella. "The Illinois Arts Council Fellowship Award is a tremendous honor in that it acknowledges one's body of work and provides significant financial assistance for the continued development of that work. In my particular case, the Fellowship will enable me to complete vital recordings of my original music, tour with those projects, and expand both my professional network and the scope of my improvisational practice through immersive visits to centers of musical culture abroad. Most importantly, I intend to make use of the ample resources provided by the Fellowship grant to generate opportunities for collaboration and collective creative growth within my immediate and extended musical community.”
For a full bio on Nick Mazzarella, and all the FY23 Fellowship recipients, visit the IACA web page.
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