Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis has announced he will step down as Managing and Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center in 2027, marking a historic leadership transition for one of the world’s most influential jazz institutions. For nearly 40 years, Marsalis has been the face of Jazz at Lincoln Center, helping transform it from a summer concert series into a globally recognized cultural landmark known as the “House of Swing.” Under his leadership, the organization expanded its performance season, built a permanent home at Frederick P. Rose Hall, and developed groundbreaking jazz education initiatives such as the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival. His work has been instrumental in raising the national and international profile of jazz as a cornerstone of American culture.

Marsalis’s influence reaches far beyond New York. As a tireless ambassador for jazz education and community-based arts organizations, he has long supported jazz programs across the country; including JazzArts Charlotte. His advocacy and encouragement have strengthened our mission to preserve, promote, and present jazz in the Carolinas. During our 10th Anniversary Celebration, Marsalis publicly supported JazzArts Charlotte, underscoring the vital role regional jazz organizations play in sustaining the art form for future generations. As he transitions into an advisory role while continuing to perform, we celebrate not only his extraordinary tenure at Jazz at Lincoln Center, but also the enduring legacy of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy he has modeled for jazz communities nationwide.

Check out this interview with Wynton from CBS Mornings talking about why he is stepping down as director from Jazz At Lincoln Center.