#USA #New York #Jazz at Lincoln Center #Wynton Marsalis #JALC

Jazz at Lincoln Center Embraces New Leadership Phase

In a groundbreaking announcement from Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC), the organization revealed that Wynton Marsalis will be transitioning out of his leadership role after nearly four decades of transformative guidance since the organization’s inception in 1987. This leadership change is not merely a farewell to a beloved figure but a strategic move that aims to build on the strong foundation Marsalis established, ushering in a new era for the organization.

As the current artistic director, Marsalis has been at the forefront of promoting and elevating jazz as a significant and often underappreciated component of American culture. His vision has continuously propelled the JALC towards success, highlighted by the recent welcoming of new musicians into the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and the impressive ticket sales from their concerts. Additionally, their educational initiatives—essentially programs like Essentially Ellington, Let Freedom Swing, and national outreach programs—have seen remarkable expansion.

Marsalis will not exit the scene entirely. He is set to continue as the artistic director for the 2026-27 season, and thereafter, he will serve the organization in an advisory capacity starting in July 2027. Even after his contract ends in June 2028, Marsalis will retain a role with the JALC board as a founder, ensuring a bridge between his storied past and the organization's future.

The timing of this change aligns perfectly with the JALC’s momentous upcoming 40th anniversary, suggested Marsalis, as he expressed gratitude towards his fellow artists, board members, staff, and the unwavering commitment of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO). He expressed confidence for the organization’s potential: “I’m excited for the future of the JALC, as the new leadership will take us to greater heights, surrounded by emerging, talented, and inspired musicians and advocates.”

The board of JALC has moved quickly to establish a committee to work with Marsalis in identifying a new artistic leader. Additionally, another committee is tasked with finding the next Executive Director following the departure of Greg Scholl later this year, solidifying a duo of equal partnership to guide the organization’s future.

The 2026-27 season will be a celebratory period honoring Marsalis's illustrious career and lasting impact on the jazz genre. Detailed programming for this milestone season is expected to be announced in February 2026, paving the way for a grand celebration of jazz artistry.

In conclusion, the transition in leadership at Jazz at Lincoln Center is set to redefine its mission while honoring its past. As Wynton Marsalis steps aside, the anticipation builds for what the future holds for this esteemed organization at the core of jazz performance, education, and advocacy.