While Mary Lou Williams’ fame is slightly disproportionate to her contributions to the jazz world, her legacy lives on. Here are four highlights of Williams' career to enjoy on her 106th birthday!

Her Story 

Williams career began at a young age. She was born on May 8, 1910 in Atlanta, Georgia, and began playing piano at 6 years old, hitting the road to tour at 12. When the pianist was only 15 years old, she was spotted in a Harlem club by Louis Armstrong, who in reaction to hearing Williams play kissed her on the forehead. It wouldn't be the last time she crossed paths with legendary jazz figures...

Mary Lou Williams was discovered by Duke Ellington, who she eventually wrote for and collaborated with. In addition to her work with Ellington, Williams wrote for bandleaders such as of Earl Hines, Tommy Dorsey, and Benny Goodman.

Her Innovation

Williams has been noted for always being slightly ahead of her time, which is what helped shape the next generation of jazz musicians in their early career, particularly those in the bebop and free jazz scenes. Her involvement in shaping the next generation of jazz artists led her to Cecil Taylor, who she performed with in Carnegie Hall a few years before her death.

Her jazz playing also crossed into other genres. Williams was very devoted to creating religious jazz music stating, "I am praying through my fingers when I play. I get that good "soul sound", and I try to touch people's spirits."

Her Legacy

Mary Lou Williams  made an equally important impression as both a composer and a teacher. Artists under her tutelage include Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and several others.

In a 1945 interview, Williams recalled collaborating with Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk after writing "In the Land of Oo-Bla-Dee" for Gillespie. "During this period Monk and the kids would come to my apartment every morning around four or pick me up at the Café after I'd finished my last show, and we'd play and swap ideas until noon or later," Williams recalled. 

The pianist took a two-year hiatus in Europe where after converting to Catholicism spearheaded an organization dedicated to helping addicted musicians rehabilitate and return to performing. Dizzy Gillespie with the help of two priests convinced Williams to return to the stage in 1957. 

A tribute featuring singers, dancers, and the premiere of new interpretations of Williams' work will take place on Sunday, May 8, 2016 at Symphony Space at 7:30 pm