George Wein, the jazz impresario who produced the Newport Jazz Festival and consequently set the template for modern music festivals around the world, has died at the age of 95.

As a prominent promoter of jazz, Wein was as legendary as the festivals he produced. After organizing the first Newport Jazz Festival in 1954, he started the Newport Folk Festival in 1959 and then adapted the model to start the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 1970.

Throughout his career, Wein presented hundreds of music events across the United States and other parts of the world.

Wein’s spokesperson Carolyn McClair announced the news on Monday.

“It is with immense sadness that we let you know of the passing of our founder and north star, George Wein,” reads a message posted by both Newport festivals. “We have all lost a giant champion of jazz, art, philanthropy, and equality. There will never be another like him. Rest easy, George.”