#USA #New York #Jazz at Lincoln Center #Wynton Marsalis #Artistic Leadership

Jazz at Lincoln Center Announces a Leadership Change

Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) is embarking on a significant transition as Wynton Marsalis steps down from his long-held leadership role, having devoted almost four decades to shaping the organization. This announcement was made by the Board of Directors, recognizing both Marsalis’s monumental contributions and the organization’s readiness for new artistic direction.

A Legacy of Leadership

Wynton Marsalis has been pivotal in establishing JALC as a beacon for jazz music and education. Since its inception in 1987, he has championed the jazz genre, promoting its rich history while nurturing contemporary talent and fostering a love for the art form across generations. Under his guidance, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra flourished, attracting new musicians and engaging wider audiences through successful concert sales and educational initiatives.

As part of the transition, Marsalis will continue to serve as the Artistic Director for the upcoming 2026-27 season, where he will celebrate his impressive career and profound influence on jazz music. By July 2027, he will transition to an advisory role as Founder, ensuring that his vision continues to guide the institution even after his departure from operational duties. Marsalis’s enduring legacy will also see him remaining on JALC's Board as Founder indefinitely following the conclusion of his contract in June 2028.

Looking Forward

The timing of this transition comes as the organization stands robust, with a clear vision for the future. JALC is not only celebrating its historical milestones but is also actively expanding its outreach programs. The education initiatives such as Essentially Ellington and Let Freedom Swing are seeing increased participation, fostering a new generation of jazz enthusiasts. In addition, the establishment of Jazz Congress and Blue Engine Records helps solidify JALC’s place in the jazz landscape.

In anticipation of these changes, the Board of Directors has appointed a committee to work closely with Marsalis in identifying the next generation of artistic leaders, ensuring a smooth transition. Another search committee has been formed to locate JALC’s next Executive Director, following the planned departure of Greg Scholl this June. The chosen Executive Director and the new Artistic Director will hold equal standing, both reporting directly to the Board.

Marsalis's Vision for Jazz

Reflecting on his time at JALC, Marsalis noted, “When we established Jazz at Lincoln Center in 1987, our goal was to build an enduring institution for jazz, an often-overlooked aspect of American culture. JALC has been the honor of a lifetime.” His gratitude extends to the artists, board members, and the orchestra itself, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving JALC’s mission.

With the upcoming season, 2026-27, JALC is set to honor Marsalis’s legacy with a series of performances and events showcasing his contributions to jazz. The full lineup will be announced in February 2026, promising an exciting celebration for jazz lovers worldwide. Their efforts continue to highlight the genre’s critical role in American culture and bring forth new talent committed to its future.

As Jazz at Lincoln Center looks to the horizon, it stands prepared not just to celebrate its past, but to embrace the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Leadership changes will undoubtedly inject fresh energy into the organization, positioning it for continued relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of jazz music.

Conclusion

Jazz at Lincoln Center is not just an institution; it is a living testament to the power of jazz. While bidding farewell to one of its most acclaimed figures, Wynton Marsalis, it simultaneously opens its doors to a new era of creativity and exploration, continuing to inspire future generations.

For more information, visit the official Jazz at Lincoln Center website.