Wynton Marsalis, the legendary trumpeter and founder of Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC), is stepping down from his roles as managing and artistic director after an impressive four-decade tenure. This significant transition marks a new chapter not only for Marsalis but also for the world of jazz, which is reflecting on his profound contributions to the genre.
In a recent press release from JALC, details of a phased transition plan were shared. Marsalis will continue to serve as the artistic director throughout the 2026-27 season and will remain on staff in an advisory role as founder until June 2028. After that, he will hold a position on the JALC board as founder indefinitely. His ongoing involvement is expected to continue elevating jazz’s global profile.
As Marsalis embarks on this new journey, the jazz community is also celebrating standout recordings from 2025 while looking forward to exciting developments in 2026. Notable albums from last year include Charles Lloyd’s “Figures in Blue,” Jeremy Pelt’s “Woven,” and Branford Marsalis’s “Belonging.” These recordings showcase the vibrant and evolving landscape of jazz, highlighting original compositions and collaborations that push the boundaries of the genre.
A late addition to 2025’s noteworthy releases is drummer and composer Brandon Sanders’ “Lasting Impression.” Featuring an impressive roster of talent including vocalist Jazzmeia Horn and pianist Eric Scott Reed, this album has already garnered attention for its rich sound and engaging performances. Tracks like “8/4 Beat” and “Until You Come Back to Me” reflect the album’s high-quality production and artistic chemistry among its musicians.
The jazz world also mourns the recent loss of influential musician D’Angelo, who loomed large both in and out of jazz circles. His unique sound and artistic vision left an indelible mark on the music industry, and many cherish fond memories of his performances. As we usher in a new year, appreciation for both past and present artists remains vital, fueling a passion for the music that binds jazz enthusiasts together.
As we look forward to 2026, performances such as saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins and his quartet at the Dakota on March 10 are highly anticipated. The jazz community continues to thrive, and there’s a sense of optimism for the year ahead.
Thankful for the ongoing support from readers, Robin James expresses enthusiasm for continuing the journey through the rich tapestry of jazz. Here’s to a year filled with inspiration, learning, and, of course, incredible music. Happy New Year!