Remembering Jim McNeely

May 18, 1949 – September 26, 2025

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Pianist and arranger-composer Jim McNeely passed away on Sept. 26, 2025 at the age of 76.

McNeely was born on May 18, 1949 in Chicago.

He earned a music degree from the University of Illinois, moved to New York in 1975, made his recording debut with trumpeter Ted Curson in 1976, and during 1978-84 was a member of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra (which became the Mel Lewis Orchestra).

McNeely had lengthy stints with the Stan Getz Quartet (1981-85) and the Phil Woods Quintet (1990-95) in addition to rejoining the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra (formerly the Mel Lewis band) in 1996.

He was the main conductor for the DR Big Band in Copenhagen during 1998-2002 and worked with many of Europe’s other top jazz orchestras, often contributing challenging arrangements.

The harmonically advanced pianist also frequently led trios and combos, making over two dozen albums as a leader.

Along the way he recorded with Jack Walrath, Bob Brookmeyer, Nick Brignola, Bobby Watson, Art Farmer, Rufus Reid, David Liebman, John Handy, Jackie Paris, and Judy Niemack.

Jim McNeely is featured playing his composition “In This Moment” with the Frankfurt Radio Big Band on June 13, 2024; Axel Schlosser is the flugelhornist on the moody and ultimately heartwarming ballad.

-Scott Yanow

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