Bridgewater to Take Over Jazzset

Effective Oct. 1, award-winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater (pictured left) will replace Branford Marsalis as host of National Public Radio’s (NPR) JazzSet, a weekly series that airs on nearly 130 public radio stations nationwide and spotlights top jazz performances from festivals, nightclubs and concerts from around the world.

Marsalis, who has reigned over JazzSet for the past 10 years, says “I have thoroughly enjoyed my association with the program, but it is time to give someone else an opportunity to be involved with this prestigious show.”

Bridgewater’s inaugural season on JazzSet will feature performances by trumpeters Terence Blanchard and Wallace Roney, saxophonist Joe Lovano, the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, the Maria Schneider Orchestra and singers Etta Jones, Cassandra Wilson and Jane Monheit. JazzSet is one of many NPR series that focus specifically on jazz music. Others include Jazz Profiles, Jazz from Lincoln Center and Billy Taylor’s Jazz.

“I am ecstatic and honored,” says Bridgewater, who foresees taking JazzSet “to an even higher level.”

JazzSet producer Becca Pulliam commented that “[Bridgewater’s] musical standards, performing experience, wonderful radio voice, talent and energy will take us somewhere new. We are thrilled.”

Visit NPR online at www.npr.org for a complete list of local member radio stations.

Originally Published July 27, 2001