Ken Peplowski

Ken Peplowski
Peplowski in 2007
Peplowski in 2007
Background information
Born(1959-05-23)May 23, 1959
DiedFebruary 2, 2026(2026-02-02) (aged 66)
Aboard the Celebrity Summit sailing in the Gulf of Mexico
GenresJazz, dixieland, swing, mainstream jazz, traditional pop
OccupationMusician
InstrumentsClarinet, tenor saxophone
LabelsConcord, Nagel-Heyer, Arbors
Websitekenpeplowski.com

Kenneth Joseph Peplowski (May 23, 1959 – February 2, 2026) was an American jazz clarinetist and tenor saxophonist. He was known primarily for playing swing music. For over a decade, Peplowski recorded for Concord Records.

Life and career

Peplowski was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 23, 1959. In 2007, Peplowski was named jazz advisor of Oregon Festival of American Music and music director of Jazz Party at The Shedd, both in Eugene, Oregon.

Peplowski battled multiple myeloma for five years. He died unexpectedly on February 2, 2026, at the age of 66. He had been participating on a Jazz Cruise aboard the Celebrity Summit when he failed to appear for a scheduled afternoon performance, although he had a reputation of being consistently punctual. Peplowski was subsequently found dead in his cabin.

Awards and honors

Discography

As leader/co-leader

As sideman

Publications

References

  1. ↑ Williams, Alex (February 11, 2026). "Ken Peplowski, Who Helped Revive the Jazz Clarinet, Dies at 66". The New York Times. Retrieved February 11, 2026.
  2. 1 2 "Ken Peplowski | Biography & History". AllMusic. Retrieved July 31, 2021.
  3. ↑ Michael J. West (February 3, 2026). "In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026". Downbeat. Retrieved February 9, 2026.
  4. ↑ "Ken Peplowski, music director for the Oregon Coast Jazz Party, dies at 66". KLCC. February 5, 2026. Retrieved February 9, 2026.
  5. ↑ The Jazz Cruise on Facebook: "We are sad to report that our dear friend Ken Peplowski died yesterday. Ken was a beloved member not only of The Jazz Cruise family, but of the larger international jazz community as well. "He was a great musician, but he was also one of the very best entertainers ever," said Michael Lazaroff, executive director of Signature Cruise Experiences. "I do not know any musician who respected the bandstand more than Ken. He was always prepared, love performing with his fellow musicians, and, man, could he play!" A more extensive remembrance is coming from us soon."
  6. ↑ Colson Thayer (February 4, 2026). "Jazz Musician Ken Peplowski Found Dead on Celebrity Summit Cruise Ship After Missing Scheduled Performance". People. Retrieved February 5, 2026.
  7. ↑ "The Natural Touch - Ken Peplowski Quintet | Songs, Reviews, Credits". AllMusic. Retrieved July 31, 2021.
  8. ↑ Ken Peplowski/Diego Figueiredo, Amizade. Review by Alex Henderson, NYCJR, February 2020, Issue 214, page 38 - retrieved February 12, 2020.
  9. ↑ "Ken Peplowski | Album Discography". AllMusic. Retrieved July 31, 2021.