According to the Associated Press, the quartet will spent four consecutive days per month, throughout the spring semester, at the university.

The Grammy-winning Marsalis was born into a distinguished jazz family, led by father Ellis Jr., a pianist and educator. His brothers are trumpeter Wynton, trombonist Delfeayo, and drummer Jason.

His 14 albums draw on such varied influences as hip-hop, German Romantic poetry, and Cuban music. His current album, Romare Bearden Revealed, was created in conjunction with a touring retrospective of the African-American artist's work. Bearden was inspired by jazz for many of his collage and painted works.

Marsalis has led his quartet for nearly 20 years, as well as producing albums and starting a recording label, Marsalis Music.