Wexner Center for the Arts Announces 2026–27 Jazz Lineup

Hot off the heels of a blockbuster jazz series, the Wexner Center for the Arts is excited to announce its 2026–27 jazz lineup. 

The new season kicks off October 6 with the return of the iconic Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and continues through early 2027 with such acclaimed artists as SML, Alfredo Rodríguez Band featuring Pedrito Martínez, and Cécile McLorin Salvant.

“Since the center opened in 1989, jazz has been a cornerstone of the Wex’s programming,” notes Kathleen Felder, senior producer and curator of the jazz series, “and the lineup for next season continues that storied tradition and is especially notable for the return of Wynton Marsalis, who the Wex has presented nine times over the years. It’s a joy to bring such unparalleled talent to Columbus and to share with our audiences.”

Ticket prices vary and will be available to members only April 30–May 11. General public sales begin May 12 at 10 AM (EST). Memberships can be purchased online, by phone at (614) 292-3535, or in person at the Wexner Center for the Arts. All members receive free parking with their ticket purchases; general public receives discounted $5 parking. All ticket prices include fees. Fees are waived for members or if tickets are purchased in person.

The Schedule 
All performances are in the Wexner Center’s Performance Space, unless otherwise noted.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
Presented with support from Columbus Jazz
Tue, Oct 6, 2026 | 7 PM in Mershon Auditorium
$125–$150 for general public, $115–$45 for Wex members, and $20 for students

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis returns to Columbus for an unforgettable night of swing, blues, and masterful musicianship. This special event will take place during Marsalis’s final season as artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and music director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

SML
Fri, Nov 6, 2026 | 7 PM and 9 PM
$45 general public, $40 adults 55 and over, $35 members, $15 students

Making their Columbus debut, SML pushes the boundaries of jazz with an immersive blend of electronics, rhythm, and improvisation. Members of the Los Angeles–based collective SML have performed with Tortoise, Phoebe Bridgers, Jeff Parker, Makaya McCraven, Perfume Genius, Meshell Ndegeocello, Joel Ross, and many more.

Alfredo Rodríguez Band with special guest Pedrito Martínez
Fri, Feb 19, 2027 | 7 PM and 9 PM
$45 general public, $40 adults 55 and over, $35 members, $15 students

The Alfredo Rodríguez Band, joined by virtuoso percussionist Pedrito Martínez, will bring a fusion of their Havana roots with Afro-Cuban rhythms and contemporary improvisation to the Wex.

Cécile McLorin Salvant
Thu, Apr 1, 2027 | 7 PM and 9 PM
$45 general public, $40 adults 55 and over, $35 members, $15 students

Visionary vocalist, composer, and three-time Grammy winner Cécile McLorin Salvant returns to the Wex with her captivating new project, Oh Snap, showcasing her singular blend of storytelling, theatricality, and jazz artistry.