Downbeat: Critics’ Poll 2026

The winners of the Downbeat Magazine 74th Critics’ Poll include several Harmonious World guests and subjects of my reviews. As well as these great awards, there were several of my guests featuring as runners-up.

One of the significant runners up in the Rising Star categories for Soprano and Tenor saxophonist was Emma Rawicz

The notable winners are:

Jane Ira Bloom: Soprano saxophonist of the Year

Immanuel Wilkins: Alto Saxophonist of the Year

Craig Taborn: Keyboardist of the Year

Maria Schneider: Large Ensemble and Composer of the Year

Gabrielle Cavassa: Rising Star Female Vocalist of the Year

Take a look at the list and let me know in the comments who you’d like to find out more about on Harmonious World