103-Year-Old Judge Warren Watson Poised to Become Oldest Active Jazz Musician in the United States

MONROEVILLE, Pa. — August 21, 2026 — The Monroeville Foundation has reason to believe that Judge Warren Watson, age 103, will make jazz history when he performs with his band, Court in Session, at the Monroeville Jazz Festival on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Based on research conducted to date, Judge Watson is believed to become the oldest active jazz musician in the United States to perform live, surpassing legendary Marshall Allen, who continues to perform at age 102. If independently verified, Watson’s performance would represent an extraordinary milestone in American jazz history.

Watson’s performance may also represent a significant milestone in Pennsylvania and Allegheny County jazz history. Legendary pianist and Duquesne native Earl Kenneth “Fatha” Hines, one of Allegheny County’s most celebrated African American jazz musicians, performed throughout a remarkable career before his death in 1983 at age 79. More than four decades later, the Foundation’s research indicates Watson’s performance at age 103 could establish an extraordinary new longevity distinction in the region and Commonwealth.

“At 103 years old, Judge Warren Watson’s continued commitment to jazz is extraordinary. His performance represents more than an impressive milestone—it is an opportunity to honor the generations of musicians who have shaped this uniquely American art form.”
— Calvin Stemley

“This year’s Monroeville Jazz Festival stage will represent every generation in America—from the legends who paved the way, to the artists carrying jazz forward today, to the young musicians who will inherit it tomorrow,” said Felicia Thomas, President of the Monroeville Foundation. “For me, this festival is about honoring those who came before us, including the late Dr. Johnson, celebrating living history through Judge Warren Watson, and passing the torch to the generations to come—all at one time, on one stage. As a musician myself and a member of the legal community, it is especially meaningful to see Judge Watson represent so much of what makes our country extraordinary. At 103 years old, he is not simply part of our history; he is still making it.”

The festival will also feature Pittsburgh jazz great Dwayne Dolphin, the Afro American Music Institute, Latin Jazz Experience and Jazzmania Live, bringing together established artists and emerging musicians for a celebration of jazz, legacy and the next generation in the Greater Pittsburgh Region.

“Jazz is a living history, passed from one generation to the next through the musicians who preserve it, expand it and teach it,” said Dr. Nelson Harrison, prominent Pittsburgh-based jazz trombonist, composer, jazz historian and clinical psychologist. “To witness Judge Warren Watson take the stage at 103 years old is extraordinary. His longevity connects us to generations of jazz history, while the young musicians performing alongside established artists remind us that this music continues to evolve. Bringing those generations together on one stage is a meaningful way to honor where jazz has been while celebrating where it is going.”
— Dr. Nelson Harrison

Because no single comprehensive registry documents the age and performance history of every jazz musician, the Monroeville Foundation is continuing to seek independent historical review and verification of Judge Watson’s potential distinction. Jazz historians, researchers, archives and cultural institutions with information relevant to this research are encouraged to contact the Foundation.

The Monroeville Foundation proudly recognizes UPMC East and Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) for their support of the Monroeville Jazz Festival and invites the Greater Pittsburgh Region and beyond to be part of this historic celebration. Community leaders, businesses and organizations are encouraged to help amplify this moment, while vendors and additional sponsors still have an opportunity to participate.

Most importantly, the Foundation invites the public to join us on September 5, 2026 and fill the park as generations of jazz history come together on one stage.

The Monroeville Jazz Festival will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

About the Monroeville Foundation

The Monroeville Foundation supports programs, partnerships and community initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Monroeville through charitable giving, cultural programming and community engagement.

Media, Research & Festival Inquiries:
info@monroevillefoundation.org
www.monroevillefoundation.org