Bell Artist Awards

Established in 2022, The Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Awards are modeled after The Gilmore’s renowned classical Gilmore Artist and Gilmore Young Artist Awards, and provide some of the most significant financial support in the musical arts. Funded by an $8.8 million gift to The Gilmore’s endowment, the Awards honor Kalamazoo businessman Larry J. Bell—founder of Bell’s Brewery and past president of The Gilmore’s Board of Trustees.

Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award

Presented every four years, the Bell Artist Award recognizes a jazz pianist of any age or nationality through a rigorous and confidential selection process. The award totals $300,000, making it one of the most generous in the field. The recipient receives an initial $50,000 to use at their discretion, followed by $250,000 over four years to support projects and activities that advance their musicianship and career.

Larry J. Bell Young Jazz Artist Award

Also presented every four years, the Bell Young Artist Award honors two of the most promising U.S.-based jazz pianists, age 24 and younger. Each recipient will receive a $25,000 stipend to support artistic and educational development.

Selection Process

Artists are nominated by the Jazz Awards Nominating Committee, made up of music professionals from around the world. Final decisions are made by the anonymous Jazz Awards Artistic Advisory Committee. As with The Gilmore’s classical awards, nominees remain unaware they are under consideration throughout the process.