Jazz Composer and Arranger Carla Bley Dies at 87

Carla Bley, influential jazz composer, arranger, and pianist, died recently at age 87.
Bley was known for her subversive and bold compositions that ranged from delicate miniatures to dramatic fanfares.
While labeled an avant-gardist early on, her music maintained elements of tonal harmony throughout her prolific career.
Bley composed jazz standards, jazz-rock operas, and other polymorphic works over decades.
In 2015, Bley was recognized as a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master for her groundbreaking contributions.