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Bright Moments

Bright Moments

Written by: WBGO Studios
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About this listen

 Bright Moments Podcast is a storytelling project exploring the experiences and impact of people who have changed WBGO, Newark Public Radio, and the world of jazz.

In Season 1, we highlight NEA Jazz Master Dorthaan Kirk and her role in the beginnings of WBGO, Newark Public Radio. Learn about her commitment to jazz musicians as a curator and community organizer.

Though WBGO now stands as a global jazz powerhouse, its origins were far humbler, and it was Dorthaan Kirk's indispensable role in those formative years that laid the groundwork for the station's enduring success, spanning several decades.

Visit WBGO.org for more Bright Moments Podcast | WBGO

Hosts: Dorthaan Kirk & Jamara Wakefield
Produced by: Billy Robinson and Jamara Wakefield
Special Thanks: Corey Goldberg2024 Music World
Episodes
  • A Night to Remember: Lou Rawls, Marlena Shaw, and the 1992 New Year's Eve Celebration

    A Night to Remember: Lou Rawls, Marlena Shaw, and the 1992 New Year's Eve Celebration
    Aug 15 2024
    Dorthaan Kirk returns to a magical New Year's Eve in 1992 at the Waldorf Astoria. Discover the unforgettable performances by Lou Rawls and Marlena Shaw, and hear stories from Gary Walker about what brought together legends, celebrated in style, and in support of WBGO 88.3 FM Newark Public Radio.

    WBGO Studios produces the Bright Moments podcast.

    Host & Storyteller Dorthaan Kirk
    Host & Producer Jamara Wakefield
    Editor Billy Robinson
    Mixer Corey Goldberg

    with special thanks and support from Doug Doyle.

    Visit WBGO dot org for more Bright Moments Podcast | WBGO
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    22 mins
  • Dorthaan Kirk on the Legacy of WBGO’s Record Fair

    Dorthaan Kirk on the Legacy of WBGO’s Record Fair
    Jul 18 2024
    In this episode, we dive into the rich history of The Record Fair, a special concert series that began as a gathering for record collectors and evolved into a major event celebrating vinyl, jazz, and community.

    Discover how this fair became a pivotal performance incubator for rising artists, including the late Roy Hargrove. We also honor the contributions of Rita Keith, WBGO's Membership Services Coordinator, and the late Bob Porter, who, along with Kirk, transformed the fair into a cornerstone of Newark Public Radio’s fundraising efforts.

    Tune in for an inspiring look at the people and passion behind this iconic event.

    Visit WBGO dot org Dorthaan Kirk on the Legacy of WBGO’s Record Fair | WBGO
    Photo credit: Bill May

    Producers: Billy Robinson, Jamara Wakefield, and Dorthaan Kirk
    With special thanks to Corey Goldberg, Doug Doyle, and Becca Pulliam.
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    18 mins
  • 1987 Classical Jazz at Lincoln Center

    1987 Classical Jazz at Lincoln Center
    Jun 20 2024
    In this episode of the Bright Moments podcast, we embark on a nostalgic journey back to the summer of 1987 with the legendary Dorthaan Kirk. Broadcasting from the WBGO studios at 54 Wayne Shorter Way, Dorthaan shares her memories and insights as we explore the humble beginnings of Jazz at Lincoln Center.

    Discover how a small group of dedicated visionaries, including Alina Bloomgarden, Wynton Marsalis, and Dorthaan Kirk herself, laid the foundation for a cultural cornerstone that would transform the jazz scene in New York City.

    Tune in to celebrate the passion, dedication, and transformative power of music that shaped the early days of Jazz at Lincoln Center, and how it continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Visit WBGO for more 1987 Classical Jazz at Lincoln Center | WBGO

    Host: Dorthaan Kirk
    Hosted and Produced by Jamara Wakefield
    Produced by Billy Robinson
    Edited by Corey Goldberg

    Special thanks to Becca Pulliam and Doug Doyle
    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
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