We arrived in Monterey on Thursday after traveling by bus from Los Angeles, and last night the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra performed at the 69th Monterey Jazz Festival. I first played at Monterey in 1983, and I’m always honored to return. This year, the Festival also presented me with its 17th Jazz Legends Award at the Jazz Legends Gala at Spanish Bay. My longtime friend Wendell Pierce spoke at the gala, and Jon Batiste, who hosted the evening, gave a personal tribute before presenting me with the award. I’m grateful to them and to the Monterey Jazz Festival for this honor. Last night, Cecile McLorin Salvant and Kate Kortum joined the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra as our special guests. Thank you, Monterey. Forty-three years after my first performance here, it is still a pleasure to come back and play. (photos by: Luigi Beverelli)

The @jazzdotorg Orchestra in soundcheck for tonight’s concert at @MontereyJazz Our special guests tonight: Cécile McLorin Salvant and Kate Kortum