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Wynton Marsalis Sets Phased Exit From Jazz at Lincoln Center After Nearly 40 Years

The board launches twin searches under a new co-leadership model.

Overview

  • He will remain artistic director through the 2026–27 season, shift to an advisory Founder role in July 2027, and continue on the board as Founder after June 2028.
  • Special committees have been formed to identify the next artistic leadership and to recruit a new executive director following Greg Scholl’s planned June 2026 departure.
  • JALC says the executive and artistic directors will serve as equal partners reporting to the board as the organization notes strong concert sales and expanding education programs.
  • Marsalis will step back from his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra duties but expects to perform with the ensemble on occasion at Rose Hall and other venues.
  • The 2026–27 season will celebrate his career internationally, with the full lineup scheduled for announcement in February 2026.