The Herbert Gussman Jazz Septet at Cornell has been recognized with a DownBeat 2026 Student Music Award in the category of Small Jazz Ensemble/Combo - College/Undergraduate Outstanding Performance. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in jazz education, the award highlights the ensemble’s artistry and places them among the top collegiate jazz groups in the country.

This achievement marks the university’s fourth DownBeat Award in three consecutive years.

The septet’s student musicians include:

• Vocalists: Beyanca Lovelie Guilme ’27, Anthony Washington ’25
• Trumpet: Kobby Adu ’25
• Guitar: Turner Aldrich ’26
• Piano: Nathanial Choi ’28
• Bass: Adam Ronald Dixon ’25
• Drums: Tife Sokan ’25

Read the full story on The College of Arts & Sciences website.