Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
MPR News Staff

Irv Williams plays Dakota Jazz Club for 98th birthday

Irv Williams
Irv Williams, 96, has been inducted into the Minnesota Jazz Hall of Fame, and the saxophone he played for 35 years of his long-running career is on display at Minnesota History Center.
Nate Ryan | MPR

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Legendary Twin Cities saxophone player Irv Williams will be performing at the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis this Sunday in honor of his 98th birthday.

Williams has performed with jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Fletcher Henderson and Billy Eckstine. His playing style earned him the nickname "Mr. Smooth."

Williams grew up in Arkansas and Ohio, but moved to the Twin Cities after World War II. He taught in the St. Paul Public Schools for many years.