Sammons Center for the Arts Announces Retirement of Jazz Artistic Director Arlington Jones; Names First Female Successor Rebecca Cordes
DALLAS, TX (May 7, 2026) – Yesterday, May 6, 2026, the Sammons Center for the Arts officially announced the retirement of Arlington Jones, the esteemed Artistic Director of Sammons Jazz, following a distinguished 15-year tenure. Effective today, Jones will transition into a new role as the first-ever Emeritus Artistic Director for the Center.
A Steinway Artist, composer, and producer, Jones became the fourth Artistic Director in 2011, succeeding James Gilyard (1999-2011). During his tenure at the Center, Arlington curated and programmed 375 artists, fostering a vibrant environment for both legendary performers and emerging talents. His love of the genre and commitment to presenting exceptional live jazz music has solidified the Sammons Jazz series as a premier destination for world-class live music in Dallas.
“Arlington’s vision and dedication over the last 15 years have been transformative for the Sammons Center,” said Joanna St. Angelo, Executive Director. “While we will miss his leadership, we are thrilled that he will continue to share his expertise and passion with us while he focuses on his career as a traveling artist as our inaugural Emeritus Artistic Director.”
With the Spring season of Sammons Jazz now concluded, the Center is also proud to announce a historic transition with the announcement of his successor. Beginning June 2026, Rebecca Cordes, a local pianist, composer, and teacher, will take over concert programming at the Sammons Center as its first female Artistic Director. Her appointment, on Jones’ recommendation, marks a significant milestone in the organization’s history, reflecting a continued commitment to excellence and diversity in the arts.
“It has been a profound honor to serve this community and work alongside so many incredible musicians,” said Arlington Jones. “I look forward to supporting the Center in this new capacity and watching the jazz program flourish under new leadership.”
The Sammons Center for the Arts hosted a formal celebration to honor Jones’s legacy and welcome the incoming Artistic Director on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Details regarding the upcoming 2026-2027 season of Sammons Jazz and Sammons Cabaret will be released in June with member sales going live in July.