Jazz at the Hacienda Returns

By Nora Heston Tarte | Photos by Randy Tunnell

The Santa Lucia Preserve is a 20,000-acre nature preserve and community located just a short drive from picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea. In addition to protecting the area’s natural wonders, the Preserve boasts a golf course designed by Tom Fazio, a state-of-the-art equestrian center, tennis courts, swimming pools, and nearly 100 miles of maintained hiking, biking, and dog-walking trails. These components make the Preserve not only a coveted place to live but also an ideal setting for some of the area’s most prestigious events.

Jazz at the Hacienda, a collaboration between the Preserve and Monterey Jazz Festival, is one such event. Since its inception, in 2014, it has highlighted the talents of world-renowned jazz musicians, local students studying the craft, and the food and wine for which the region is perhaps best known. This year, it was held on May 13 in the property’s Old Barn, a luxurious setting for the beloved event.

“This has been a true collaboration between Monterey Jazz Festival and the Preserve,” says Howard Fisher, a board director of the Monterey Jazz Festival and a resident of the Preserve. “We have worked closely with Tim Jackson, the festival’s artistic director, to find the musicians and produce the shows. And the Preserve can put on a great party.”

The evening began with a set by this year’s featured musician, Peter Cincotti, who joined guests for a meal afterward. Cincotti and his trio then returned to the stage to serenade the crowd as dessert was served. “He is the epitome of the Café Carlyle, New York entertainer,” says Fisher.

Previous headliners have included Tierney Sutton, Jazzmeia Horn, and Roberta Gambarini.

Prior to the show, a wine reception was held and local high school musicians played to the crowd, bringing three of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s main exports to guests—wine, food, and music.

For more information, visit santaluciapreserve.com.