Wolf Trap recently witnessed a jazz performance of exceptional brilliance as the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), led by the legendary Wynton Marsalis, took the stage. For an evening brimming with musical mastery and improvisational flair, the 15-member ensemble delivered a show that was both a testament to their virtuosity and a celebration of jazz’s rich history.

Marsalis, a nine-time Grammy winner, National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master, and Pulitzer Prize recipient, not only dazzled on trumpet but also showcased his role as the artistic director of this world-renowned big band during the concert at Wolf Trap on Aug. 15. The JLCO, founded in 1988, demonstrated why they are considered the premier big band globally, blending historical compositions with their own inventive arrangements.

The evening’s setlist was a journey through both classic and contemporary jazz. The concert began with Marsalis’s own compositions, “Black Codes (From the Underground)” and “Marthaniel,” which displayed his deft touch on the trumpet and the ensemble’s impeccable coordination. These pieces were a testament to Marsalis’s innovation and the JLCO’s ability to bring fresh life to his works.

The ensemble’s interpretation of Duke Ellington’s “Far East Suite, Movement 8, Amad,” and “Mood Indigo,” was nothing short of magical. Ellington’s compositions, with their intricate arrangements and emotive depth, were rendered with a reverence and nuance that underscored the Orchestra’s mastery of the genre.

Sherman Irby’s “Tenth Movement of Musings of Cosmic Stuff, called Star of Bhana,” was another highlight, showcasing the band’s ability to navigate complex time signatures and harmonies with ease. The piece was a testament to the JLCO’s range and their dedication to pushing the boundaries of jazz.

As the night progressed, the audience was treated to “Moon Over Cuba,” another Ellington classic that evoked the timeless elegance and sophistication of the big band era. Marsalis’s own “These Are Those Soulful Days” followed, a composition that intertwined soulful melodies with intricate rhythms, leaving the crowd in awe.

The evening concluded with Wayne Shorter’s “Mama ‘G’,” a piece that beautifully rounded out the performance with its rich textures and engaging improvisations.

Prior to the JLCO set, the spellbinding jazz vocalist and MacArthur “genius grant” recipient Cécile McLorin Salvant opened the evening with a captivating and powerful performance, setting the tone for the night with her distinctive voice and emotional depth. Backed by a trio of piano, bass, and drums, Cécile covered the works of Burton Lang, Aretha Franklin, Cole Porter, and others.

Since 2015, the JLCO’s albums have been issued on its own label, Blue Engine Records. Its most recent release is Freedom, Justice, & Hope, is a creative collaboration with social justice activist and founder of The Equal Justice Initiative Bryan Stevenson. It features new arrangements of some of the most important protest songs in jazz history and new works by featured guest artists Endea Owens and Josh Evans. The album was recorded live March 31 – April 1, 2021 and released on June 14, 2024. 

Listen to Freedom, Justice, and Hope by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on Spotify:

The JLCO’s chemistry during the Wolf Trap performance was palpable. The ensemble’s tightness and dexterity were matched only by their evident enjoyment and passion for the music. Each member contributed to a cohesive and exhilarating performance.  The 15 members of the orchestra are Wynton Marsalis (Music Director, Trumpet), Obed Calvaire (Drums), Christopher Crenshaw (Trombone), Vincent Gardner (Trombone), Victor Goines (Tenor & Soprano Saxophone, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet), Carlos Henriquez (Bass), Sherman Irby (Alto & Soprano Saxophones, Flute, Clarinet), Ryan Kisor (Trumpet), Elliot Mason (Trombone), Ted Nash (Alto & Soprano Saxophones, Flute, Clarinet), Paul Nedzela (Baritone & Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet),  Dan Nimmer (Piano), Marcus Printup (Trumpet), and Kenny Rampton (Trumpet).

Setlist:
Black Codes (From the Underground) (Wynton Marsalis)
Marthaniel (Wynton Marsalis)
Far East Suite, Movement 8, Amad (Duke Ellington)
Mood Indigo (Duke Ellington)
Tenth Movement of Musings of Cosmic Stuff, called Star of Bhana (Sherman Irby)
Moon Over Cuba (Duke Ellington)
These Are Those Soulful Days (Wynton Marsalis)
Mama “G” (Wayne Shorter)

Enjoy some additional photos from Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra’s Wolf Trap performance on Aug. 15, 2024. All images copyrighted and courtesy of Ari Strauss.