Celebrating those who shaped the history of jazz in Indianapolis, Indiana
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 from 6-9 p.m. - The Cabaret
Indianapolis Jazz Foundation Hall of Fame Ceremony and Fundraiser
Join the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation as we celebrate legacy, music, and education
By attending our annual fundraising event, you are doing more than buying a ticket. You are supporting those that have made significant contributions to the Indianapolis jazz scene, and those that are continuing to make new contributions. The evening will provide a snapshot of the various programs we execute throughout the year, showcasing our efforts on preserving legacy and jazz education programs. 50% of the ticket price directly benefits our yearly programming.
This year's inductees:
Pharez Whitted
Pharez Whitted is a renowned trumpeter from Indianapolis, to Chicago and beyond. The performer, composer, producer, and elite clinicianhas received many accolades over the years, including being a “Chicagoan of the Year” honoree. He is celebrated both as a world-class virtuoso and a transformative leader as Director of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra and his teaching at Northern Illinois University.
Wendy Reed
Wendy Reed is an integral part of the Indianapolis jazz scene. The vocalist has performed at venues across the city, showcasing her career dedicated to community and culture. Over the years, she has appeared with the First Impression Band, the Wendy Reed Band, and The Bob & Tom Show All-Star Band. Her contribution is a snapshot of the many programs and performances that keep our city's legacy alive.
Jozell S. Carter
Jozell S. Carter was more than a drummer - he was a powerful force in the Indianapolis jazz scene that possessed a signature rhythmic style, earning him a seat alongside Indy’s jazz giants. Over the years, Carter has shared the stage with icons including Grover Washington, Jr., Jimmy Smith, Johnny Lytle, and Indy’s own Billy Wooten. For years, he served as the engine of the premier Indy jazz quintet Small Talk, helping define the sophisticated, high-energy "club sound" of Indianapolis.
Kevin Anker
Kevin Anker is a master of the Hammond B3 and piano, known for a sound that sits exactly at the intersection of blues, soul, and jazz. Mentored by Indy greats like Harvey Cook and “Mad” Harold Cardwell, Kevin’s playing is defined by a “Memphis Soul” grit that is both greasy and harmonically sophisticated. Today, Anker remains one of Indy’s most versatile artists on the scene.
Thursday, May 7th, 2026 from 6-9 p.m. - The Cabaret
Indianapolis
Jazz Hall of Fame
The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame is a legacy project curated by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation. Its mission started in 1998 to recognize, celebrate and remember those who have made significant long-term contributions to the Indianapolis jazz music scene. This list includes a collection of artists ranging from international jazz luminaries to Indy-based innovators who shaped and continue to shape the jazz world. This list includes notable musicians, educators, bandleaders, composers, photographers, and historians. New members are nominated and inducted into the Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame each year.
The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame is a work in progress!
As a trusted jazz source, the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation strives to provide accurate and comprehensive documentation of Indy’s rich jazz legacy. If you have more information, we are continually seeking new information and perspectives on IJF Jazz Hall of Fame winners.
Contact us to request changes, updates, or additions at info@indyjazzfest.net.
Inductee Biographies
The Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame will continue to evolve as new material is discovered, confirmed, and added to the site. We are always looking for content contributions! These include photos, videos, and links to more resources.
A special thanks to contributions from author/historian David Leander Williams and his book Indianapolis Jazz: The Masters, Legends and Legacy of Indiana Avenue, Kyle Long and his radio programs Cultural Manifesto and Echos of Indiana Avenue, as well as NUVO, Indy Star, Indiana Historical Society, and Indianapolis Recorder. Information was also collected from musician websites, Wikipedia, personal conversations with families and students, and Hall of Fame inductee interviews.
We extend special thanks to Indiana photographers Mark Sheldon, Larry Goshen, Royce Campbell, and David Olive for allowing us to use their impactful photography.
Induction Ceremony
Annually, IJF Hall of Fame winners are recognized at our Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame induction ceremony and represent the best of the best. These individuals have made a significant impact on the Indianapolis Jazz scene. These award ceremonies include live jazz performances and have taken place at Indy Jazz Fest, The Jazz Kitchen, the Schrott Center for the Arts, the Indiana Landmarks Center, and the Madam Walker Legacy Center.
Hall of Fame Nominations
Once a year, nominations are evaluated and voted on by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation legacy committee, IJF board members, and staff.
We encourage new suggestions as we highlight significant contributors to the Indianapolis Jazz scene.
If you would like to nominate a candidate, please fill out the Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame Nomination Form.
Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame
Nomination Form:
Thank you for visiting the Indianapolis Jazz Hall of Fame.
Provided by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation Legacy Program, with support from:
