Dizzy Gillespie was a visionary architect of bebop, a peerless trumpet virtuoso, and a gifted educator, dancer, and raconteur. Tonight, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, percussionist Roman Diaz, and vocalist Brandie Sutton dig deep into the musical world of Dizzy. As much a revolution as it was a movement, bebop ushered in the modern era of jazz and marked a decisive line between old and new. The high-speed acrobatics, harmonic sophistication, and technical authority of bebop have permeated all of jazz and continue to inform and challenge musicians of all levels. Vincent Gardner – JLCO trombonist, composer, arranger, and tonight's music director – will lead the Orchestra in new and classic arrangements of Dizzy's music, showcasing the thrilling melodies, hard swing, and kinetic solos that define these works. Gardner also makes his highly anticipated return as a JLCO composer, debuting a new work that highlights the essential components of bebop and keeps true to its spirit by offering something fresh, distinct, and technically ambitious. On the occasion of Dizzy Gillespie's centennial, audiences will experience the depth, energy, and creativity that this unparalleled genius and beloved figure continues to inspire.

Free pre-concert discussion nightly, 7pm.

Arrive early on Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28 to participate in the Dizzy Gillespie Festival in the Ertegun Atrium beginning at 6pm. Enjoy live music by Jazz at Lincoln Center’s education programs, and experience tastings from Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola and partners Lotus Scoop Ice Cream and Spoonbread (1/28 only). 

Did you know? Our In The Pocket members get access to open sound check for this performance. Become a member starting at just $75 and you're invited!