Review by Paulina Harnisch
This past January, I had the privilege of attending the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO) with Wynton Marsalis at DPAC. As a DPAC Student Ambassador, I was eager to experience this renowned ensemble firsthand. Based in New York City, JLCO is a 15-member band that travels the world, sharing the rich tradition of jazz with a global audience. Wynton Marsalis, the orchestra’s managing and artistic director, hails from New Orleans and began playing the trumpet at just 12 years old. A nine-time Grammy Award–winner, Marsalis has played a key role in establishing JLCO as one of the most celebrated jazz ensembles in the world.
Jazz’s Influence on Black Culture & America
As we honor the achievements and celebrate Black culture during Black History Month, it’s important to recognize the profound influence jazz has had on American history. Jazz—a genre known for its freedom and improvisation—emerged from the cultural crossroads of New Orleans, blending African and European musical traditions. Icons like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington helped shape and popularize the genre, which continues to evolve today. As Marsalis himself put it, “Throughout history, jazz musicians have inspired and have been inspired by many art forms to create new works and express cultural statements.”
JLCO Live at DPAC: A Sold-Out Show
Arriving at DPAC on that snowy Friday night, I could feel the anticipation in the air as audience members filled Leighton Concert Hall. The sold-out crowd buzzed with excitement, and it was a full-circle moment for JLCO—returning to DPAC 20 years after launching its first Presenting Series season. From the moment the musicians took the stage, it was clear they were having fun. They exchanged smiles and laughter, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that made the performance feel intimate, as if we were witnessing a private jam session.
Wynton Marsalis: Jazz as a Living Story
Marsalis commanded the stage with a quiet authority, introducing each piece with engaging stories about the artists and the history behind the music. The performance felt like a narrative, seamlessly weaving together history, culture, and personal stories. Each musician had a moment to shine, stepping forward for a solo while their fellow band members applauded their artistry. It was clear that JLCO operates as a close-knit ensemble, with Marsalis acknowledging each member’s contributions, reinforcing their importance within the group.
JLCO’s Signature Sound: The Art of Jazz Improvisation
Throughout the evening, JLCO played a diverse selection of jazz pieces, shifting effortlessly from soulful and introspective to lively and upbeat. Marsalis spoke about the essence of improvisation in jazz, emphasizing its connection to freedom. Though it was hard to tell exactly when the musicians were improvising—everything blended so seamlessly—I noticed moments when they exchanged knowing glances and smiled at each other. I’d like to think those were the moments of spontaneous creation, a hallmark of jazz’s expressive nature. As Marsalis put it, “The love is ultimately what makes it what it is.” This was my favorite quote from the evening, encapsulating the passion and emotion that jazz embodies.
Jazz & Social Change: A Voice for Black Expression
Jazz, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, has long been a vehicle for Black self-expression, particularly during times when their voices were suppressed. More than just music, jazz embodies the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of the Black experience. It has served as a political statement, with songs used in protests during the Jim Crow era and beyond. Throughout the performance, Marsalis reinforced this idea—jazz is storytelling, a way to preserve and share history. The evening culminated in a standing ovation, a testament to the profound impact of the music and the stories behind it.
How JLCO Changed My Perspective
Before this concert, I knew little about jazz or its history, but I left deeply moved. I now have a greater appreciation for jazz—not only as a musical genre but as a vital part of Black culture and history. DPAC offers students a unique opportunity to engage with the performing arts in a meaningful cultural context, and this event was a perfect example of that. To me, it represented the beauty and power of self-expression. I am inspired by JLCO and Wynton Marsalis’ mission to share their love of jazz and storytelling with the world. I highly recommend this event to others, especially my fellow students. DPAC has so much to offer, and I look forward to experiencing more live music events—these are always some of the most memorable nights of my semester!
Event photos courtesy of Paulina Harnisch.
