Thielemans is credited with bringing the harmonica to jazz and is heard on the well-known "Sesame Street" theme song. He is also the first European-born musician and harmonica player named a Jazz Master.
Ten-time Grammy-winner Benson has shown his jazz roots singing and playing in crossover hits like "This Masquerade."
Also honored were drummer Jimmy Cobb, veteran trumpeter Snooky Young, saxophonist Lee Konitz and recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder.