Dear Listener,
Last week, the Jazz Education Network (JEN) held its annual conference in New Orleans. In his keynote speech, Representative John Conyers unveiled the outlines of a new National Jazz Initiative, calling for legislation to provide for the preservation of jazz and the implementation of jazz education programs. During our interview with Congressman Conyers on WWOZ, we suggested additions to enhance his bill, including support for the 30+ public radio stations that feature jazz as a major programming element.
On a related note, our live coverage from the JEN conference included the spontaneous voices of six or seven students singing a delightful jazz interlude a capella; it came through the airways as they practiced in the corridor. This was a reminder that part of WWOZ's mission is to keep our music alive for the next generation.
Another recent WWOZ Magic Moment occurred during our 2010 Spring Membership Drive, when bass player and composer Roland Guerin played three solos that he created extemporaneously during an on-air interview with "Jazz from the French Market" host T.R. Johnson. It was a virtuoso performance leaving everyone in awe. Then in December, at an "After Hours" performance by Roland at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the discussion turned to these on-air improvisations months earlier. Roland asked if it were possible to get a copy of those three tunes so he might revisit them. Operations Manager Jorge Fuentes and T.R. hunted down the segment and now Roland can further develop the inspiration that came to him while performing at WWOZ. Who knows? Perhaps you'll be hearing these songs on forthcoming releases.
These are just a few of the ways that WWOZ brings the creativity and genius of New Orleans' music to the world.
Yours in Snake and Jake's and king cakes,
David Freedman
General Manager
Jazz Fest 2011 Lineup Announced
The Jazz Fest 2011 lineup of performers has been announced. It includes acts such as Lucinda Williams, Ahmad Jamal, Ron Carter, Arcade Fire and so much more. Check it out and start planning your Jazz Fest 2011.
Don't forget to buy your brass pass now. They're still your best ticket to Jazz Fest and now they're fully transferable, so you can share a brass pass with your family, friends and co-workers.
Looking Back at 2010
Look back with us as we remember the events of 2010, including our 30th birthday, the release of our smart phone applications, Jazz Fest, the Saints Superbowl win, live event broadcasts, membership drives, and more festivals than we can count on both hands. If you missed out, or would just like to reminisce, flip through our photos, videos, and blog posts.
In Memoriam: 2010
WWOZ honors the fallen heroes of New Orleans music who passed away in 2010, including Herman Leonard, Brandon Franklin, Albert "June" Gardner, Walter Payton, and many more that are sorely missed. During their lives, they made New Orleans and jazz music better for their dedicated work and love. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends.
» Click here to read our 2010 memorial tributes
Getting in the Mardi Gras Groove
Get into the Mardi Gras spirit with WWOZ. Carnival season began on January 6th, but we've got lots of events to keep the parade rolling all the way until March 8th. Visit our Mardi Gras page to find schedules, the history of the Mardi Gras Indians, king cakes, special Mardi Gras related events and more. Check back often to find out about special WWOZ Mardi Gras events.
» Get into your purple, green and gold for Mardi Gras 2011
Haiti: One Year Later
One year ago, a horrific magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti and today, the hard work and struggle isn't over for this Carribean nation. Just like New Orleanians, who always extend a helping hand to their neighbors in need, please consider helping our Gulf neighbors in Haiti. Keep an eye on our updated list of benefit events right here in the Greater New Orleans area for Haiti relief efforts, and check out our online resources to find out how you can help.
» Learn more about how to help folks in Haiti
Show Hosts Make the World Go Round
'OZ Show Hosts are the life blood of the station, and they bring you all the wonderful music, interviews and special content that makes 'OZ not just a radio station, but a jazz beacon, broadcasting New Orleans jazz and heritage music to the Universe. Just another way to receive insider information about upcoming interviews, special events and more.
» Check out the WWOZ Show Host Blog
January Recipe: Mamere’s Brown Oyster Stew in Pastry Shells
Based on a family recipe and reinterpreted by Chef John Folse, this stew is a unique option for hors d'oeuvres, with fresh Louisiana oysters and no spoons or bowls to wash later. If you like the recipe, then check out Louisiana Cookin' magazine. Subscribe with the promotion code wwoz2011, and they'll donate $5 to WWOZ.
WWOZ Quick Links
Playlists Online
Interested in an artist we played on-air? View playlists posted by our show hosts; use the Search tab to search by song title, band name, CD title or label.
Shop WWOZ
The Swamp Shop is open and chock full of WWOZ gear.
New Orleans Music Calendar
Live music is the life-blood of New Orleans. Check out our online music calendar to find out who's playing where!
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