SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Sacramento musician and restaurant owner Joe Gilman was recently named a “Jazz Hero” by the Jazz Journalists Association. The international writers’ group advocates for the preservation and visibility of jazz.

Carmichael resident Dr. Gilman, 63, is a famed pianist and former teacher for American River College and Sacramento State University.

Upon his retirement, he and his Thai-born his wife Kai took over a small Folsom Boulevard eatery. Adding live music to the menu, the couple created one of the hottest performance venues in Sacramento.

Jazz Journalists Association representative Joe Wirt presented the Journalists’ award before a packed Twin Lotus Thai restaurant.  

"What Joe has achieved here for jazz and for musicians is incredible," said Wirt. “His venue levels the playing field for a huge variety of artists. His work is multi-dimensional. Most of our award winners are leading musicians. But they don’t also run restaurants that support other artists. And he’s an Energizer bunny. Where else does a promoter and manager actually play piano with his performers and wait tables?”

The Jazz Hero accepted his honor and returned to refilling water glasses for Saturday night patrons.   His award came as a surprise. “I’m familiar with the Jazz Journalists Association and the incredible artists they recognize,” he noted. “But I’d no idea how they came to know what we’re doing here.”

“I’m grateful and honored,” Gilman continued. “It’s incredibly affirming to have our work recognized in this way. The award has given me a renewed sense of purpose.”

Learn about Twin Lotus Thai and the venue’s music programs at twinlotusthai.com.