Most jazz fans will recognize Marian McPartland ] as the host of NPR’s Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz but many may not realize what a truly accomplished artist and composer she is in her own right. As the new CD 85 Candles – Live in New York shows, McPartland is one of the most cherished figures in jazz today.

Recorded in March 2003 at New York’s famous Birdland nightclub in honor of McPartland‘s 85th birthday, this CD encompasses performances from artists throughout the world of jazz. Included are performances by McPartland protege Norah Jones (who had just swept through the Grammys with her debut album Come Away With Me), Dr. Billy Taylor, Ravi Coltrane, and many more.

McPartland shows no signs of age or slowing down on any of the 14 tracks she appears on. She shows her ability to adapt to multiple configurations of vocalists and accompanists. Five of the tracks are duets including standout performances of McPartland and rising star Jason Moran on “Summertime” and the appropriately named “Free Piece” with Jim Hall that was totally improvised during the performance. While the only drawback of this CD may be its emphasis on more sentimental songs it is still a fine collection of performances and gives further evidence as to why Marian McPartland is considered the “Grand Dame of Jazz”. (blogcritics.org).