Wynton Marsalis, a prominent figure in jazz, is set to perform in Korea with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, a 15-member big band he founded, at the LG Art Center in Seoul on March 25-26. This marks his first performance in Korea with the full orchestra in 24 years, having last performed there in 2002. Tickets for the concert sold out just weeks after opening and a month and a half before the event, indicating high demand for this jazz experience.

Marsalis is not only celebrated for his trumpeting skills but also recognized for his contributions to jazz through institutions and education. With a career spanning years in which he has won nine Grammy Awards and became the first jazz artist to receive a Pulitzer Prize in 1997, he is seen as a pivotal figure in extending the reach and understanding of jazz music beyond concert halls. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra features a powerful combination that facilitates rich harmony and strong rhythmic drive, characteristic of big band music, through an organic blend of improvisation across various sections.

Having launched the jazz concert series at Lincoln Center in 1987, Marsalis has led the orchestra for many years but plans to step down from his role as artistic and music director at the end of the 2026-2027 season. After the Seoul concert, he is scheduled to perform at the Pyeongtaek Art Center on March 27, continuing his significant contributions to jazz both in performance and outreach.