Spring 2005 Show Schedule

NOTE: Dates correspond to when NPR provides a show to radio stations, which can then broadcast the program any time within the following two weeks. Air days, dates and times vary widely across the country -- consult our Jazz Profiles stations list for information in your area.

May 25
Jimmy Smith

A critic once described organist Jimmy Smith as an "excitement merchant" creating a lush, soul-stirring sound that brings audiences to their feet. This tribute explores Smith's early days in Philadelphia and shows how he brought the Hammond organ to the forefront of jazz.

June 1
Kenny Burrell

From his first big break with Dizzy Gillespie's band in 1951 to his memorable performances with Jimmy Smith, John Coltrane and his own bands, guitar legend Kenny Burrell has earned praise for his subtle and soulful approach to swing.

June 8
Shirley Horn

This Grammy Award-winning singer and pianist specializes in love songs. In the early '60s, Horn enjoyed a taste of popularity with the support of Miles Davis and Quincy Jones and then disappeared from the spotlight to raise her daughter.

June 15
Paquito D'Rivera

Acclaimed composer and master of the clarinet and saxophone, Paquito D'Rivera has been a pioneer in the Latin jazz world for decades. Born in Havana, Cuba, he performed at the age of ten with the National Theater Orchestra and later became a featured soloist with the Cuban National Symphony.

June 22
Slide Hampton

Trombonist, composer, and arranger Slide Hampton is a distinguished jazz veteran. Raised in Indianapolis with an extraordinarily musical family, he started performing at the young age of twelve.

June 29
George Wein

Jazz impresario and pianist George Wein combined a creative spirit with a keen sense of the business to invent a new jazz setting; The Newport Jazz Festival. His conception proved that jazz could attract audiences by the tens of thousands while creating attention and respect for jazz and the jazz musician.