Jazz at Lincoln Center Wynton Marsalis begins a phased leadership transition after 40 years, as the jazz world reflects on his impact and looks ahead to 2026.
Robin James
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Jazz masters, Grammy picks, and a standout night at Orchestra Hall
Grammy nominations, NEA Jazz Masters honors, and a standout Wynton Marsalis performance highlight a powerful season for jazz.
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Fall into jazz: smooth sounds and star performances this season
The crisp, cool air of autumn is here, the fall colors are on full display, and soon some of jazz’s brightest stars will be too. Add to that a host of warm, colorful new recordings perfect for cozying up on chilly days ahead. Boney James and Kirk Whalum, two of today’s biggest contemporary jazz artists, […]
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Fall jazz lineup promises new albums and live performances
From Craig Taborn’s “Trio of Bloom” to JD Allen’s “Love Letters” and Charles Lloyd’s “Figure in Blue,” fall jazz in Minnesota is rich with new sounds and live highlights. The Dakota’s October slate features Kenny Garrett, Dee Dee Bridgewater with Bill Charlap, and Brandee Younger, with Herbie Hancock at the Orpheum.
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Selby Avenue JazzFest returns, led by Walker West
Selby Avenue JazzFest 2025 returns Sept. 12–14 with free concerts at Selby and Milton. Walker West leads a lineup featuring Cory Henry & the Funk Apostles and more, plus two public masterclasses.
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Celebrating 25 years and a season full of jazz milestones
James on Jazz turns 25 this September. Celebrate The Dakota’s 40th on Sept. 20, remember Sheila Jordan, and preview the Detroit Jazz Festival and AACM 60th at the Walker.
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Monk, Blue Note, and vibrations of legacy
This month’s jazz roundup features new releases from Paul Cornish and Eric Scott Reed, with tributes to legends like Sonny Clark and Geri Allen. Plus, don’t miss Jane Monheit and Rebirth Brass Band live in Minneapolis.
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New albums and festivals make for a rich jazz season
From major label releases to free local festivals, this summer offers a rich jazz experience for listeners everywhere. Read about new albums by Danny Grissett, Christian McBride, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, plus live shows like Lizz Wright at the Dakota and the Selby Avenue Jazz Festival in St. Paul.
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New releases and rising voices
Jazz columnist Robin James spotlights Brandon Woody’s debut album “For the Love of It All,” plus new Blue Note releases, jazz radio favorites, and more.
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Jazz Appreciation Month: Festivals, rising stars, and living legends
International Jazz Day 2025 will be held in Abu Dhabi and observed in 190 countries, with a concert led by Grammy-winning pianist Herbie Hancock and featuring artists such as Cécile McLorin Salvant and Wynton Marsalis.
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27th Annual Twin Cities Jazz Festival set for June 20-21
The 27th annual Twin Cities Jazz Festival will take place in Mears Park, Lowertown St. Paul, featuring headliners such as Catherine Russell, Sean Mason, and Emmet Cohen Trio, and will be free and open to the public.
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Greatest big band in the land spreads joy at Orchestra Hall
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis performed at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, showcasing their mastery of jazz music and inspiring the audience with their energetic and soulful performance.
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Likely candidates for this year’s Jazz Grammys
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards are just around the corner, featuring a rich array of jazz talent, with standout albums from Charles Lloyd, Charles McPherson, Louis Hayes, Ambrose Akinmusire, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis.
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Enjoy a jazzy holiday
Jazz pianist George Cables celebrates his 80th birthday with the release of his new album “I Hear Echoes” on High Note Records, while Branford Marsalis signs with Blue Note Records and the Branford Marsalis Quartet will go on an extensive tour throughout the United States and Europe.
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The great Quincy Jones passes
Quincy Jones, a revered arranger and composer who transcended musical genres and produced Michael Jackson’s landmark albums, passed away at 91, while Gregory Porter celebrated his 53rd birthday and Christian Sands released a new album titled “Embracing Dawn”.
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Selby Ave. JazzFest 2024: Celebrating jazz, community, and live music
The 2024 Selby Avenue Jazz Festival will feature performances by local, regional, national, and international artists, as well as food vendors and arts and crafts.
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National Endowment for the Arts announces the latest Jazz Masters
The National Endowment for the Arts has announced the 2025 NEA Jazz Masters, including Marilyn Crispell, Marshall Allen, Chucho Valdes, and A.B. Spellman, who will be honored on April 26, 2025.
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Legendary jazz acts release new albums
Louis Hayes’ latest album, “Artform Revisited,” is now available for purchase. The album features Grammy-winning singer-songwriter/bassist Meshell Ndegeocello and more.
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Several opportunities this summer season to fall deeper in love with jazz
Jazz fans can look forward to upcoming releases from Louis Armstrong, Jason Moran, and Tarbaby, as well as upcoming performances from Stanley Jordan, T. Mychael Rambo, NOLA Brass, Arturo Sandoval, and the JazzMN Orchestra.
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Jazz Appreciation Month: April celebrates new music, birthdays, and more
April is Jazz Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the heritage of jazz, with notable releases, birthday shoutouts, and more.