The 2011 Jazz Journalists Association announced their annual awards for jazz music and jazz journalism this past weekend, and artists associated with Jazz Port Townsend were front and center.

• Jimmy Heath, who was on faculty last year, was awarded the organization’s Lifetime Achievement in Jazz honor.
• Arranger of the Year honors were given to NEA Jazz Master Bill Holman, who will join us in Port Townsend in 2011.
• Matt Wilson was named Drummer of the Year. Matt is on faculty with us in 2011 as well.
• The Mallet Instrumentalist of the Year honor was given to Stefon Harris. Stefon will also be with us this year.

Visit the JJA website for the complete run-down. The list is loaded with artists who have made a deep impression on Jazz Port Townsend students and audiences.