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George Wein, the founder of the Newport jazz and folk festivals, died Monday in his New York City apartment at the age of 95.
Wein’s firm, Festival Productions, organized notable music events around New England including the Newport Folk Festival and The Boston Globe Jazz Festival.
“We have all lost a giant champion of jazz, art, philanthropy, and equality,’' the Newport Folk Festival said a statement. “There will never be another like him.’'
Wein was born in Lynn in 1925 and grew up in Newton. The successful festival promoter had an extensive career beyond event management.
Wein once ran two Boston nightclubs, owned a record label, managed acts, promoted tours and even lectured at Boston University. He also wrote a music column for The Boston Herald-Traveler and recorded and performed as a pianist.
The Newport Festivals Foundation has launched a memorial page in Wein’s honor, collecting donations that will go toward supporting the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals.
A complete list of Wein’s surviving family members survivors and information about a memorial service has not been made available at this time.
WBZ's Drew Moholland (@DrewWBZ) has more on Wein's career:
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