Jimmy Amadie Trio

Jimmy Amadie, our friend, noted jazz pianist, author and educator passed away. He always sent his love and respect to everyone at WHYY. The On Canvas production of his Philadelphia Museum of Art Performance concert was one of the most important moments of his life. His character and strength is an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed.

Jimmy Amadie’s first love was competitive sports. Hear his inspiring story about lessons learned in competition, sustaining him through difficult times.  This North Philadelphia native came to jazz piano in his early twenties when he toured with The Woody Herman Band and accompanied Mel Torme. His performing career was brought to an abrupt halt by severe tendonitis in both hands. Playing the piano suddenly became sheer agony, and Amadie was reduced to improvising only in his head for the next 35 years. As a music educator and author of two international textbooks, Jimmy Amadie’s incredible comeback concert at the Philadelphia Museum of Art will delight.