Wynton Marsalis Steps Down as Jazz at Lincoln Center Founder
Wynton Marsalis has announced his decision to step down as managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. After nearly four decades in this pivotal role, Marsalis’s tenure has significantly elevated the stature of jazz across the nation.
Transitioning Leadership at Jazz at Lincoln Center
The announcement came on Thursday, with Marsalis, now 64, indicating the importance of transitioning to a new generation of leadership. “It’s the perfect time to identify the next generation of leadership,” he stated. His departure is planned for July 2027, after which he will serve in an advisory capacity until June 2028 while remaining a board member indefinitely.
Marsalis’s Impact on Jazz
Wynton Marsalis has become a global ambassador for jazz, known not just for his musical talents but also for his ability to connect with diverse audiences. Gordon J. Davis, founding chairman of Jazz at Lincoln Center, praised his efforts, stating, “Wynton raised it up to make it what it should be: a true art of American culture.”
A Transformative Era
Since its inception in 1987 as a summer jazz concert series, Jazz at Lincoln Center has grown into a cultural institution. The organization’s anchor, Frederick P. Rose Hall, opened in 2004 at the Deutsche Bank Center at Columbus Circle. This venue boasts three stages, which have allowed the organization to vastly expand its offerings.
- Rose Theater
- The Appel Room
- Dizzy’s Club
Despite facing challenges early on, including rapid budget increases, the organization stabilized after restructuring its leadership. Marsalis noted, “I picked almost every song we played at every concert,” underscoring his active role in shaping the organization’s programming.
Future Directions and Committees
To facilitate a smooth transition, Jazz at Lincoln Center has formed two committees. One will collaborate with Marsalis to identify future artistic leaders, while the other will conduct the search for a new executive director following Greg Scholl’s departure in June.
Marsalis acknowledged the contributions of key individuals like Carlos Henriquez, Ted Nash, and others, emphasizing the continued bond among former musicians through collaboration and mentorship.
Innovations and Education
Under Marsalis’s guidance, the organization expanded its programming and educational initiatives, notably the Essentially Ellington competition for high school bands and the “Let Freedom Swing” program for elementary students. Its annual Jazz Congress attracts industry leaders and artists alike, enhancing visibility and engagement within the jazz community.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, executives at Jazz at Lincoln Center aim to raise $150 million for the endowment fund, enhance performance opportunities within their venues, and upgrade existing infrastructure. Marsalis expressed pride in establishing the “House of Swing” as a cultural icon, asserting, “We’ve never been healthier — we’re in an unbelievably good position.”
As he prepares for retirement, Marsalis reassured fans that Jazz at Lincoln Center will continue to thrive, stating, “The institution is not Wynton Marsalis at Lincoln Center. It’s Jazz at Lincoln Center.”
