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NEA Jazz Master saxophonist and clarinetist Paquito D'Rivera kicks off NJPAC's TD James Moody Jazz Festival

Paquito D'Rivera
C/O of the artist/NJPAC
Paquito D'Rivera

While Paquito D’Rivera’s work reflects a dedication and enthusiasm for Jazz, Bebop & Latin music, his involvement with classical music began at age 10 in Havana, Cuba, leading to his work later in life with symphonies around the globe.

In November, Paquito will join The New Jersey Symphony for performances in Newark (NJPAC's TD James Moody Festival on Nov. 7 and 8) and then in Morristown (Mayo Performing Arts Center on November 10) .

Paquito D'Rivera chats with WBGO's Gary Walker
Doug Doyle/Zoom
Paquito D'Rivera chats with WBGO's Gary Walker

Paquito chatted with me recently about his musical memory of Gershwin, his group Irakere and more that come to life in these upcoming live performance.

You can SEE the entire interview with Paquito D'Rivera here.

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 on Daybreak. He's the winner of the 1996 Gavin Magazine Jazz Radio Personality of the Year Award and the recipient of the 2021 Marian McPartland-Willis Conover Award for Career Achievement in Broadcasting from the Jazz Journalists Association. Gary hosts the morning show each weekday from 8am til noon. And, by his own admission, he's truly having a great time.