Johnny Costa and Joe Negri
We've been cooking up a lot of special jazz programming of late - Music and voices and memories that show the unifying power of jazz and Pittsburgh. We’ve waited to go to “green” and perhaps see one another more, but we have had the time to cherish some very special parts of Jazz and Pittsburgh:
Also, a special hour of music from Pittsburgh jazz legends Joe Negri and Johnny Costa
A three-hour tribute to adoptive Pittsburgh Richie Cole who passed away on May 2nd. Richie Cole’s years in Pittsburgh were very important for him and for Pittsburgh, and we heard many wonderful stories and a lot of great music, including insights from one of Richie’s daughters, a eulogy from trumpeter Mike Price, who toured with Richie in the Buddy Rich Band, and thoughts from a dozen Pittsburghers who had a connection to Richie Cole, especially in the last seven years of his life.
A Tribute to drummer Jimmy Cobb, who’s seven decade career included years with recent young lions of jazz, to early years with Dinah Washington, and his major role in the Miles Davis Kind of Blue session.
A preview of the June 20th Pittsburgh International Jazz Fest online day, June 20th, and
A visit with WZUM’s Scott Hanley with guitarist Gene Bertoncini (with music, too).
On an ongoing basis, Kate Borger has been brightening our Friday and Saturday mornings with her unique approach to music that helps you smile on “Rhythm-a-Ning,” and Chuck Leavens shares a focus on hometown music favorites each weekday with the Pittsburgh Show.
We’re keeping track of the return of live jazz events in Pittsburgh, online and even in person at WZUM at with Jazz Central.
One thing we haven’t had is a pledge drive. As we wrap up the month of May and move into June, we have a very immediate goal of $5,000 to raise to cover ongoing costs and some annual obligations that are coming due. As we send this email out, there’s less than halfway to go - if you have the time and ability to make a new, renewing or additional gift, it well be of great help to keep WZUM The Pittsburgh Jazz Channel.
Thanks very much for listening, for your interest and your support!