Monterey Jazz Festival - 50th anniversary tour January 12, 2008

A musical first in the West, the Monterey Jazz Festival has proved to be both artistically ambitious and great fun, regularly showcasing the brightest stars in the jazz universe. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Festival hits the road with a roster of musical heavyweights representing the very best in modern jazz. Terence Blanchard ("His writing is superb and heartfelt, his playing perfect," says the Wall Street Journal) rose to prominence through his association with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and is one of today's top trumpet players. Saxophonist James Moody has dominated the scene for over 60 years and continues to delight audiences with his vitality and innovative playing. Nnenna Freelon is in "the very top echelon" (Los Angeles Times) of jazz vocalists, and pianist Benny Green "plays funky and hard, and breathes not only be-bop but Oscar Peterson's virtuosic effusions as well" (The New York Times).

Official Website: http://www.calperfs.berkeley.edu/presents/season/2007/jazz/mjf.php