Wynton Marsalis is a virtuoso trumpeter, composer, educator, and one of the most prominent figures in modern jazz. Born on October 18, 1961, in New Orleans, Louisiana, a city renowned for its musical heritage, Marsalis was immersed in music from a young age as part of a prodigiously talented family of musicians. His father, Ellis Marsalis Jr., was a respected pianist and music teacher who instilled a love and dedication for jazz in his sons. Wynton's classical training at the Juilliard School of Music was just the prelude to a storied career that would see him deftly navigating both the worlds of jazz and classical music with exceptional prowess.

With a career that spans over four decades, Marsalis has become synonymous with jazz education and advocacy, promoting the music as a vital part of American cultural heritage. As a recording artist, he has released over 80 jazz and classical recordings which have garnered him nine Grammy Awards. In 1997, Marsalis made history by becoming the first jazz musician to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his epic oratorio "Blood on the Fields." His discography is a testament to his versatility and range, with works such as "Live at the House of Tribes" and "The Magic Hour" showcasing his skill as a band leader, while "The Democracy! Suite" and "The Ever Fonky Lowdown" reflect his engagement with America's social and political issues. A steadfast custodian of the jazz tradition, Marsalis continues to inspire through performances, compositions, and his educational endeavors as the Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. His recent works, like the tribute "The Music of Wayne Shorter," and his expansive exploration of American music in "Blues Symphony" and "Symphony No. 4 'The Jungle'," further solidify his place as a living legend in the world of music.

Genres

Classical Trumpet

Contemporary Post-bop

Jazz

Jazz Trumpet

New Orleans Jazz

Straight-ahead Jazz

Related Artists

Miles Davis

Terence Blanchard

Roy Hargrove

Nicholas Payton

Art Blakey

Joshua Redman

Christian McBride

Branford Marsalis

Louis Armstrong

John Coltrane

Diana Krall

Dexys Midnight Runners

Latest Release

Freedom, Justice, and Hope

Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra•

Wynton Marsalis

Album - 14 Tracks - Released June 14, 2024