Sullivan Fortner (New Orleans, 1986) is an American jazz pianist who studied at Oberlin Conservatory and the Manhattan School of Music, mentored in part by Ellis Marsalis. He rose to international prominence as the regular pianist in Roy Hargrove's quintet and as Cécile McLorin Salvant's primary collaborator, together earning three Grammy Awards. His music draws on the New Orleans jazz tradition, bebop and classical harmony in equal measure.
Fortner released his sixth album Leave That In There on August 28, 2026 via Artwork Records, a personal trio work that combines New Orleans jazz, Hammond B3 and Bàtá percussion.
Fortner won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Album on February 1, 2026 for Southern Nights - his third Grammy win in total.
Fortner performed on July 12, 2026 at the NN North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam.
Fortner received the inaugural Larry J. Bell Jazz Artist Award from The Gilmore on October 8, 2025, the largest financial prize ever exclusively intended for a jazz artist.
The live album Southern Nights, recorded during a week-long residency at the Village Vanguard with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Marcus Gilmore, was released on February 14, 2025 via Artwork Records.
😴 Nothing scheduled with this artist in the near future.
Jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein performs with his American quartet at Paradox. An evening of refined melodies and subtle strength featuring pianist Sullivan Fortner, bassist Doug Weiss and drummer Kush Abadey.
American jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner performs an evening of refined, virtuosic piano music at paradox Tilburg.
American jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner performs an evening of piano-led jazz at SPOT Groningen.
American jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner performs at Bimhuis.
American jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner performs a solo concert at LantarenVenster.
