The idea of a successful artist returning to his or her alma mater to collaborate with and mentor current students reflects an aesthetic purity that extends beyond just a commitment to one's art.

It's hard to imagine a finer representation of that ideal than the Berklee School of Music's "Masters on the Road" series. The concept involves successful alumni musicians heading back to campus to provide clinical instruction and actually lead a touring ensemble comprised of undergrads.

It's the sixth year of the "Masters on the Road" series, and tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson (class of '87) is in the leader's chair with his Berklee Sextet. The group performs Friday at the Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme. Jackson has performed with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, Elvin Jones, Ben E. King, Ron Carter, Freddie Hubbard, Betty Carter and Charlie Haden, and has released 14 albums on his own, including 2015's "Expressions."

Members of the sextet include trumpeter Milena Casado, alto saxophonist Amir Lee, drummer Garyfallia Kerkezou, bassist Youngchae Jeong and pianist Thomas Beuf. The Side Door show is a great opportunity to see a reigning wizard of jazz working with the stars of tomorrow.

Javon Jackson's Berklee Sextet, 8:30 p.m. Friday, Side Door Jazz Club, 85 Lyme St., Old Lyme; $30; (860) 434-0886.