A Father’s Day to Remember: Wynton Marsalis & The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Light Up Philadelphia

This past Father’s Day in Philadelphia, the Kimmel Center’s newly named Marian Anderson Hall was alive with the electrifying spirit of jazz. Presented by Ensemble Arts Philly, the legendary “Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra”, led by the incomparable Wynton Marsalis, delivered a concert that was nothing short of extraordinary—a soulful celebration, a history lesson, and a masterclass all in one.

Wynton Marsalis, globally revered trumpeter, composer, educator, and champion of jazz, brought his signature brilliance to the stage alongside a powerhouse ensemble. From beloved jazz standards to rare historic gems and newly commissioned works, the evening was a dynamic journey through the genre’s deep and diverse legacy.

The orchestra, featuring a stellar lineup including Philadelphia native Joe Block on piano providing some stellar runs on the 88’s, delivered breathtaking arrangements of classics by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Mary Lou Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, and Charles Mingus, to name just a few. Their interpretations were bold, elegant, and bursting with soul—showcasing the precision, swing, and expressive power that Marsalis and his orchestra are known for worldwide.

A highlight of the night was Marsalis’s moving tribute to mentorship and youth. Known for his deep commitment to nurturing the next generation, he praised the importance of passing the torch: “Part of the continuum of our music is standing on the shoulders of those before us, while recognizing the brilliance of younger musicians.” He also gave special recognition to Mr. Lovett Hines of the Philadelphia Clef Club, honoring his decades-long dedication to teaching and inspiring young jazz talent in the city.

The setlist was both powerful and poignant. The orchestra’s rendition of John Coltrane’s “Alabama” was hauntingly beautiful, while “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby” (featuring warm, witty vocals from trombonist Vincent Gardner) brought the crowd to life. The finale, “Up From Down,” a Gardner original, earned a well-deserved standing ovation.

Marsalis also delighted the audience with personal stories—like performing in Spain at a soulful ice-skating rink arena where he debuted his vibrant “Medearaza Swing.” His humor and heart added another layer of connection between the music and the audience.

For the encore, the orchestra brought the house down with a stunning rendition of the spiritual “Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho,” sending the audience home with full hearts and rhythmic feet.

The evening was more than a concert—it was a gift, a celebration of fatherhood, mentorship, and the enduring power of Jazz. Wynton Marsalis continues not only to preserve the genre but to expand it, inspire with it, and pass it on.