WKCR announces a special broadcast celebrating the birthday of pianist Erroll Garner, broadcast on FM and HD radio and online for six hours on Monday, June 15th from 12-3 pm and 6-9 pm. The broadcast will preempt regularly scheduled Out to Lunch and Jazz Alternatives that day.

Born on June 15, 1921, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Erroll Garner was a highly influential jazz pianist and composer. Known for his distinctive style and virtuosic improvisation, Garner's music encompassed elements of swing, bebop, and stride piano. His performances were characterized by his unique "stride-inflected" left hand, which provided a solid rhythmic foundation while his right hand explored intricate melodic variations. Garner's talents earned him widespread acclaim, and he became a sought-after collaborator, playing with notable jazz luminaries such as Charlie Parker and Dinah Washington. He also achieved great success as a solo artist, with his signature tune "Misty" becoming a beloved jazz standard. Beyond his extraordinary piano skills, Erroll Garner's warm and charismatic stage presence endeared him to audiences worldwide. Additionally, Garner advocated for musicians' rights, most notably in the 1962 landmark New York State Supreme Court case against Columbia Records, which set a precedent for artists’ rights.

Today, Garner's influence can still be felt in the jazz community, as his unique approach to improvisation and his innovative use of harmony continue to inspire and captivate musicians of all generations. His timeless recordings and compositions have solidified his place as one of the true legends of jazz, and his musical legacy remains cherished by fans around the globe.

Tune in at 89.9 fm or at wkcr.org!