Trumpeter Irvin Mayfield stepped down as director of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. His decision came as a result of political pressures amid investigations stemming from a WWL-TV report from 2015. The report uncovered more than $1 million in payments that Mayfield and his business partner directed from the charity supporting the city’s library system.
Earlier this year, the Orchestra agreed to pay back $483,000 in cash over the next five years. It was agreed that the remainder would be paid back as in-kind contributions resultant from fundraising concerts and various other events.
In a press release, the Orchestra announced: “The board recognizes Mr. Mayfield’s accomplishments as the founder and visionary of what has become one of the great success stories for New Orleans music, the celebration of jazz, and the education of a new generation of musicians and artists.”
A committee, co-chaired by Wynton Marsalis, will support the organization in the transition period. Drummer Adonis, who has performed with the Orchestra for 14 years, will serve as its music director.