Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson is a celebrated swing saxophonist known for his big sound and dynamic style. After studying with jazz greats Frank Wess, Frank Foster, and Charles Davis, he attended Southern University, where he was mentored by legendary New Orleans clarinetist, composer, and educator Alvin Batiste. A pioneering force in modern jazz education, Batiste influenced generations of musicians, including Wynton and Branford Marsalis and Donald Harrison. Anderson later joined Wynton Marsalis’ Septet in 1988, touring and recording with the group for 20 years, and also performed with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. Tonight, he honors his former mentor on what would have been Batiste’s 93rd birthday, celebrating his lasting influence on New Orleans jazz.