Celebrating the Musical Achievements of Philip Ravita and Ravita Jazz with Wammie Nominations

Mount St. Mary's University is thrilled to announce that Dr. Philip Ravita, a lecturer in the visual and performing arts department, alongside his jazz ensemble Ravita Jazz, has received significant recognition for their latest album 'Alice Blue'. This celebrated album has recently earned three nominations for the 2026 Washington Area Music Awards (Wammies), which honor exceptional talent in the jazz music genre.

A Notable Acclaim
Released in May 2025, 'Alice Blue' has been warmly welcomed by jazz aficionados and critics alike. The album has demonstrated not only commercial success but also a strong critical response, capturing attention within the jazz community through positive reviews and notable chart placements. It exemplifies the group’s unique sound, merging expressive compositions and contemporary jazz sensibilities.

Musical Roots
Ravita Jazz has been performing in its current formation for over six years, during which Dr. Ravita forged strong musical partnerships with drummer Nuc Vega and pianist Greg Small, both of whom he collaborated with while studying at the University of Maryland, College Park School of Music. The ensemble also features vocalist Deirdre Jennings, a fellow UMCP graduate, and percussionist Mark Leppo, the drum and percussion instructor at Mount St. Mary's. The collective’s shared musical backgrounds and commitment to artistic development have undoubtedly influenced the signature sound present in 'Alice Blue'.

Dr. Ravita expressed his delight about the project, stating, "Getting into the studio to create this album was a wonderful experience. We aimed to produce a strong record filled with the music we genuinely love performing. While we didn't expect the overwhelming response we have received, it has been truly gratifying."

Recognizing Excellence in Jazz
The ensemble's achievements have led to nominations for three categories at the Wammie Awards: Best Album for 'Alice Blue', Best Group for Ravita Jazz, and Best Song for 'Broken Light'. The Washington Area Music Awards are now celebrating their 37th year, recognizing outstanding musical excellence throughout the greater Washington D.C. region.

Public voting for the Wammie Awards commenced on December 15, 2025, and will continue until January 15, 2026, providing fans and listeners an opportunity to support their favorites via the official awards platform.

For those eager to experience the creative sounds of Ravita Jazz, 'Alice Blue' is currently available on Apple Music and other major streaming platforms.

Mount St. Mary's University Recognition
Mount St. Mary's University extends its congratulations to Dr. Ravita for his ongoing artistic contributions that bring both national and regional recognition to the institution through his remarkable scholarship and leadership in the arts.

About Mount St. Mary's University
Located near the historic Catoctin Mountain in Emmitsburg, Maryland, Mount St. Mary's University is a private liberal arts Catholic university offering a wide variety of programs. It provides over 70 majors and concentrations for traditional undergraduate students, alongside an extensive range of adult undergraduate and graduate programs.

In conclusion, the journey of Philip Ravita alongside Ravita Jazz reflects not only dedication to their craft but also a broader impact on the jazz music scene, unveiling immense potential for the future ahead.