As Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts unveils its captivating 25/26 season—running from September 2025 through May 2026—the campus once again becomes a vibrant crossroads of artistry and community. This season’s programming is a celebration of the ten resident organizations that call Lincoln Center home, the diverse communities of New York City, and the next generation of artists who continue to redefine creative boundaries.
Among the season’s most anticipated highlights is the “Legacies of San Juan Hill Festival,” headlined by the acclaimed pianist and composer Aaron Diehl on October 25 at Alice Tully Hall.
Aaron Diehl stands as one of the most compelling instrumental musicians of his generation. Renowned primarily for his masterful jazz performances, Diehl’s artistry reaches far beyond genre, weaving together tradition and innovation in a way that has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike. The New York Times describes his sound as “elegant… upholding a traditional framework while crisply demolishing usual notions of conservatism.” As both a visionary bandleader and an inspired soloist, Diehl has collaborated with legends such as Wycliffe Gordon, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and Cécile McLorin Salvant.
For his headlining debut at Alice Tully Hall, Diehl presents a deeply personal set inspired by the rich history and vibrant culture of the San Juan Hill neighborhood. Once a thriving hub for Black and immigrant communities, San Juan Hill played a pivotal role in shaping New York’s cultural landscape before its demolition in the mid-20th century to make way for Lincoln Center itself.
Through this festival, Diehl channels the spirit and stories of San Juan Hill, using his signature style to honor the neighborhood’s enduring legacy. Audiences can expect an evening where music becomes a bridge—connecting past and present, tradition and progress, memory and imagination.
The “Legacies of San Juan Hill Festival” is a tribute to the roots that continue to nourish New York’s artistic soul. As Lincoln Center embarks on another season of bold programming, this event stands as a powerful reminder of the histories that shape our creative future. Join Aaron Diehl and the Lincoln Center community on October 25 for an unforgettable night of music, memory, and celebration.
For further information, please visit the Lincoln Center website
Aaron Diehl, photograph by Maria Jarzyna, courtesy of Lincoln Center
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