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Hear Bebop Master Barry Harris Play Monk (and More) on Morning Jazz

Nobody understands bebop piano better than Barry Harris, who at 87 is one of the great elder statesmen of our music. He graced us with his wit, erudition and piano mastery in a recent visit to Morning Jazz.

Mark Morganelli, Gary Walker and Barry Harris at WBGO

Among other things, our conversation naturally touched on Thelonious Monk, one of Barry's dear friends and deepest inspirations.

He recalled one of Monk's favorite sayings, "Two is one," which he still puzzles over today. And he offered a beautiful solo rendition of Monk's ballad "Ruby, My Dear," which you can also watch in the video clip below.

In jazz radio, great announcers are distinguished by their ability to convey the spontaneity and passion of the music. Gary Walker is such an announcer, and his enthusiasm for this music greets WBGO listeners every morning. This winner of the 1996 Gavin Magazine Jazz Radio Personality of the Year award has hosted the morning show each weekday from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. And, by his own admission, he's truly having a great time.