Jazz at Lincoln Center: Leadership Transition Marks New Era

Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) has announced a significant leadership transition as it moves into a new era. Wynton Marsalis, a pivotal figure for nearly 40 years, will step down from his current role. He will remain Artistic Director through the 2026–27 season and transition to an advisory role in July 2027. Following this, he will continue as a board member.

The transition marks a period of organizational strength for JALC, with robust concert sales and expanding educational initiatives like Essentially Ellington. New artistic and executive leaders will be selected to guide JALC's future. Marsalis expressed pride in JALC's progress and looks forward to the organization's continued success with emerging talent. The 2026–27 season will globally celebrate Marsalis's influence, with details to be announced in February 2026.