Lives Less Ordinary

Lives Less Ordinary


Wynton Marsalis: the making of a jazzman

May 18, 2020

Wynton Marsalis grew up in New Orleans in what’s been called America’s ‘first family of jazz’. His pianist father Ellis gave him a trumpet when he was six years old, but there was a slight issue - he didn't like playing and he didn't like jazz. But when Wynton started listening to his dad’s records, he had a musical epiphany. Mentored by his father, Wynton began a ground-breaking career. He’s sold millions of records worldwide, hosted jazz clinics on Sesame Street and at the White House, and made history by becoming the first jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. After Ellis died last month from coronavirus, Wynton led a virtual jazz parade in memory of his beloved father.

Presenter: Emily Webb
Producer: Maryam Mauf

Picture: Wynton Marsalis
Credit: Getty Images