Wynton Marsalis: The making of a jazzman

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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 practising 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 from coronavirus, Wynton led a virtual jazz parade in memory of his beloved father. This interview was first broadcast in May 2020. Get in touch: [email protected] Presenter: Emily Webb Producer: Maryam Maruf Picture: Wynton Marsalis Credit: Patrick PIEL/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images