At the Manship Theatre, the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge and River City Jazz Coalition presented the Alvin Batiste Hall of Distinction Award to Baton Rouge-based Mike Esneault, a Grammy and Emmy award-winning composer. His arrangements have been performed by high-caliber artists including Stevie Wonder, The Clarke Sisters, Dr. John, and more. “I am truly humbled and honored to receive the Alvin Batiste Award, which celebrates the legacy of the greatest mentor and influence on my musical life,” says Esneault. artsbr.org

This article was originally published in June 2023.