JLCO with Wynton Marsalis / Belgian National Orchestra

About the Event

Initially aspiring to a career in classical music, the unmatched trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis shifted to jazz after touring with Art Blakey’s band. He has since achieved global stardom with his expert performances. Marsalis, who still regularly composes classical pieces, features two of his compositions at Bozar. At this venue, the Belgian National Orchestra joins forces with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, made renowned by Marsalis, for the ultimate contemporary big band experience. His Fourth Symphony 'The Jungle' vividly captures the dynamism of New York and confronts the complexities of contemporary existence. Meanwhile, his richly nuanced Violin Concerto in D Major is an absorbing blend of New Orleans jazz and echoes of Irish and Scottish melodies. The Belgian debut of these pieces at Bozar is adeptly handled by Nicola Benedetti, the violinist for whom the concerto was crafted, with Marsalis also gracing the stage.

Wynton Marsalis graces Bozar with two performances. On March 29, he presents a night of quintessential American jazz featuring his leading ensemble, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Following the performance of Marsalis' The Democracy! Suite, the full orchestra will deliver an exhilarating swing session.