Grammy-winning pianist and a recipient of the 2026 Bell Jazz Artist Award, composer and bandleader Sullivan Fortner is celebrated for his immense talent and artistic versatility. 

Raised in New Orleans, Fortner’s roots are deeply felt in his music, evoking the spirit of the city’s blues and jazz greats that came before him. 

A highly in-demand collaborator, Fortner has performed with musical giants such as Wynton Marsalis and Diane Reeves. His acclaimed partnerships with Grammy-winner Cécile McLorin Salvant further cement his status as one of today’s most prolific and masterful voices in jazz.

Like all DFS programs, this hour-long student matinee performance is free to any Los Angeles area public school, though we do ask that schools make their own transportation arrangements. If that means you might not be able to attend, let us know.  We may be able to help.  Our Perloff Memorial Bus Fund provides support for bus transportation. 

We often have more demand than we can accommodate; requests are filled on a first-come basis. Contact us at dfs@cap.ucla.edu for more information.