Wynton Marsalis was scheduled to perform with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra beginning tonight, Thursday April 27, through Saturday, April 29, 2017, in Celebrating Ella: The First Lady of Jazz. However, due to a family emergency Mr. Marsalis is unable to appear.

We are pleased to announce that special guest saxophonists Joe Lovano (Thursday, 4/27 and Friday, 4/28 only) and Branford Marsalis (Saturday, 4/29 only) will appear. Trumpeter Bruce Harris will also join the JLCO.

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra celebrates the centennial of Ella Fitzgerald, a vocalist whose legacy and influence define a classic era of jazz singing. Through diverse repertoire arranged by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, tonight's guest vocalists will demonstrate why the "First Lady of Song" remains a case study in succinct phrasing and uncompromising musicality. Joining the Orchestra for this special occasion are two celebrated veteran vocalists: Kenny Washington and Roberta Gambarini. Washington – Ravi Coltrane's favorite vocalist – carries on Ella's legacy by finding the maximum impact in each and every song, utilizing his enormous range and improvisational skills with restraint and impeccable taste. Gambarini – a similarly tasteful yet boldly original artist – was described by NEA Jazz Master Hank Jones as "the best new jazz singer to come along in 50 years." In Ella Fitzgerald's centennial year, you will witness how her most identifiable traits and her complete devotion to originality and authenticity inspire the best musicians of our time.

Free pre-concert discussion nightly, 7pm.

Join our family! Our members and subscribers gain early access to concerts such as this one. Membership starts at $75 and offers benefits, invitations and more throughout the season. Subscribers purchase three or more concerts annually for priority seating and discounted tickets.

Artist Pages:

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra  

Kenny Washington  

Want to hear more of Ella’s music? Join us for our Annual Gala, Ella at 100: Forever the First Lady of Song, featuring special guests including Renée Flemming, Audra McDonald, and host Harry Connick, Jr., Apr 26.