Our beloved Bill Douglass, jazz master and co-founder of the Sierra Jazz Society, passed away quietly in his sleep at 5 AM on February 26, 2024. Bill’s wife, Nora Nausbaum, had been a steady presence at his side through his years-long struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. From his youth in Grass Valley, Bill developed a unique and remarkably deep immersion in jazz. Bill moved to the Bay Area in his late teens where he was recognized as a strong and melodic bass player with a beautiful tone. His skill led him to work with many jazz greats. He landed with the Mose Allison trio from 1970-73. He was Marian McPartland’s bassist on her West Coast tours and recorded with her numerous times, including several live CDs with her and others such as Chris Potter. Bill was an integral part of Kayal, the seminal avant jazz quartet headed by Terry Riley. He played at Davies Symphony Hall in a trio with Bobby McFerrin. Bill played many international jazz festivals, including Eindhoven in 1974, Montreux in 1985, and closer to home at the Monterey Jazz Festival with Paula West in 2002. His lengthy recording legacy includes work with Tom Waits, Hemispheres, and a duo CD with Nevada County’s John Girton.

In addition to his work on bass, Bill developed a high level of skill on the Bamboo Flute. His flute playing may be heard on the film scores to The Black Stallion, Never Cry Wolf, and Blue Velvet. Bill was also a great educator, and shortly after he and Nora moved back to Grass Valley, they founded the Sierra Jazz Society and offered an annual summer jazz camp in Nevada County. Those of us who were able to attend this camp, as well as some of Bill’s master classes at his home over the years, were fortunate indeed. He was a warm and often humorous guide to jazz performance, and his welcoming attitude always inspired. He spent a lot of time making sure everyone got the melody right. With an eye that always twinkled, and an occasional curmudgeonly retort, Bill was one who did not suffer fools gladly. But there was always love, and that deep abiding love for jazz.

In the spirit of Bill Douglass, the Sierra Jazz Society continues his mission to encourage jazz performance and education in Nevada County. Our annual jazz picnic in June, our summer jazz camp, and our select live performances throughout the year will continue to be a tribute to Bill and his lived understanding of the powerful effect of music on our lives.

Bill’s family, daughters Isabel Douglass, Sophia Douglass, their children, and his loving wife Nora Nausbaum, wish that those who want to honor Bill’s memory to please donate to the Sierra Jazz Society at Sierrajazzsociety.com. Let’s keep his legacy alive.