The renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO) led by 9-time GRAMMY-winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, is currently in Ghana, sharing insights and showcasing their exceptional musical talents.
Yesterday, the Ghana Jazz Foundation and the orchestra held a press session at Alisa Hotel, where they discussed the influence of jazz, Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, and the creative connections between the country and the African diaspora.
The JLCO’s visit to Ghana is part of their historic African tour, which marks the first time the orchestra has performed on the continent.
The visit marks a significant moment for Weedie Braimah, a renowned percussionist and folklorist, he considers it as a spiritual and artistic homecoming.
As the son of legendary Ghanaian musician Oscar Sulley Braimah, Weedie’s connection to the country’s musical heritage runs deep.
“As a touring musician, a folklorist, a djembefola — this is deeply personal. I’m not using a European narrative to define who I am. I’m using who I am to define myself,” he said.
“Our folklore, our culture, is rich — and we implement it in everything we do: art, music, food, even science. Playing here in Ghana, where my father’s tradition was born, nothing compares to that. I’ve played the greatest venues in the world — but nothing beats this.”
The tour kicked off on September 26 and will run until October 11, covering four countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana.
During their stay in Ghana, the orchestra will perform two unforgettable nights of music at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill on October 10 and 11.
A highlight of the tour will be the performance of Marsalis’ new composition, “Afro!”, which explores the links between jazz and African culture.
This piece underscores the significance of Africa as the birthplace of jazz and highlights the genre’s enduring ties to the continent and its diaspora.
Beyond the concerts, the JLCO will engage with local students and musicians through workshops, masterclasses, and exchanges.
These educational activities aim to promote jazz appreciation and nurture the next generation of musicians in Ghana.
Wynton Marsalis is a legendary trumpeter, composer, teacher, and music director. As the leader of the JLCO, he has been instrumental in shaping the sound of jazz today.
With nine GRAMMY Awards and a Pulitzer Prize to his name, Marsalis is widely regarded as one of the most influential jazz musicians of our time.
About the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
The JLCO is a world-renowned jazz ensemble composed of brilliant ensemble players, soloists, composers, arrangers, and educators.
Under Marsalis’ leadership, the orchestra performs a vast repertoire that spans rare historic compositions to newly-commissioned works, expanding the language of jazz while honoring its traditions.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of jazz with Wynton Marsalis and the JLCO at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill on October 10 and 11.
