Summer 2023

Jackson brought the experience of having played the festival as a young man to his role at MJF. His insight into the musician's experience improved the festival for artists. Pictured with Diana Krall (left) and Sonny Rollins (right). The MJF team is a big, happy family with employees, volunteers and the youth of the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra all involved year-round. The education program, started more than 50 years ago, continues to be integral to the festival. original performers, Valerie Simpson, Dave Grusin and flautist Hubert Laws—who was 80 but still playing his butt off. Quincy came up for the weekend, listened to all the groups and hung out with his old buddy Clint Eastwood.That was a truly special event.” A few years ago, Jackson reinstated the pop- ular MJF commission pieces. Lyons had initiated the idea, but it had lapsed, and Jackson was inspired to recreate it. Many stellar composers have contributed pieces, including Billy Childs, Wayne Shorter (he did three) and Maria Schneider. “The one we did last year with Chris Bowers in celebration of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary was one of the most powerful we’ve ever done. The way Chris incorporated and blended video, electronics and acoustic instruments was extremely powerful…people in the audience were in tears.” “One thing I’m proud of: If you walk into the arena now and see what it looks like on a Photo: Cole Thompson Photo: Jim Stone Photo: Brett Davidson 120 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 3