Back in March, we were happy to celebrate George Benson’s 81st birthday - including what was in March a brand new extended visit with master Benson at his home in Arizona by YouTuber and composer, record producer, guitarist, and onetime jazz lecturer Rick Beato

This time around - we are delight to share some of that visit, and also - our own call this week with George by phone as he shares the news of some newly discovered recordings from 1989 with arranger and conductor Robert Farnon and the London Symphony Orchestra. There’s a quite a Story to all that - and also, a connection with a young Jon Bon Jovi!

We also talked with George about his time in the Hill, his experiences at Connelley Vocational High School - on Bedford Avenue, was just across the street from his house. And, George repeats his love for Pittsburgh and how important the City and his friends and connections in the Burgh were so important to him in his life, to this day. He also corrected the record of his academic record - there are documents that say he went to Schenley High, but it was Connelley - and it was 27 years after leaving that he finally got his diploma!

We also visit with organist and pianist Matthew Whitaker. Last year, Matthew was Musical Director for the groundbreaking premiere of “Something to Live For,” with the story and music of Billy Strayhorn. While he was very busy with his work at the Pittsburgh Public Theater, he was also making what is now his latest CD release, On Their Shoulders: and Organ Tribute. Matthew plays for the summer concerts at Hartwood Acres, Sunday night (the opening act will be guitarist and author/scholar Colter Harper.

Also new music from vocalist April Varner, coming to Con Alma August 27th, and the latest from pianist/vocalist/composer Eliane Elias and her newest, with a feature by Brazilian music icon Djavan.

The Scene - an hourlong radio show - Thursday night at 6, Friday and Saturday at noon, Sunday at 5 on WZUM