The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music (EMCM) announced Grammy Award-winning saxophonist and composer Branford Marsalis will assume the role of Artistic Director. Branford, eldest son of the late jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis, Jr., will guid the creative vision of the Center’s music programs aimed at underserved communities. Established in 2012, the EMCM utilizes music as a cornerstone for community building and offers services to children, youth, and musicians in neighborhoods grappling with poverty and social injustice.
Situated in the Musicians’ Village, the Center serves as a living memorial to Ellis Marsalis, Jr. Founded post-Hurricane Katrina through the collaborative efforts of Branford Marsalis, Harry Connick, Jr., and Habitat for Humanity, the Center stands as a beacon for New Orleans musicians and underserved youth. It features a performance space, recording facilities, a computer center, classrooms, and more. Branford’s involvement aims to continue the legacy of his father, who dedicated the last decade of his life to realize the Center’s vision.
“My dad was a teacher, in music and in life,” said Branford Marsalis. “It is my honor to step into the role of Artistic Director at the Center and to continue to drive its mission. I hope to make my dad proud.”
Branfords responsibilities will include shaping the Center’s artistic trajectory, providing strategic insights, and steering its creative vision. Working closely with executive leadership, Branford will contribute to the development of artistic and educational initiatives fostering social change through the arts.
Branford’s friend and collaborator, Harry Connick, Jr., expressed his excitement, stating, “Having Branford step in is a dream come true. I can think of no one more suited, talented, or qualified to take our vision forward.”
Renowned director George C. Wolfe added, “Branford Marsalis is a genre-defying artist, a brilliant musicologist, an impassioned teacher, and a deeply caring human being. I can’t think of anyone better equipped to become the new Artistic Director of the Ellis Marsalis Center.”
Branford, alongside his lifelong dedication to music, will uphold the legacy of Ellis Marsalis by imparting knowledge to future generations of New Orleans musicians. Wynton Marsalis, renowned jazz trumpeter and Branford’s brother, affirmed, “Branford will inspire the coming generations with his energy, creativity, and belief.”
The Ellis Marsalis Center for Music, in its mission to transform lives through music, finds joy in providing opportunities for artistic and creative growth. Branford’s appointment as Artistic Director ensures the Center’s continued pursuit of outstanding work and builds upon his father’s enduring legacy. For more information, visit www.ellismarsaliscenter.org.
