Jazz 88.3 Blog

NEW THIS WEEK FOR 3/28/11

So here we are in The Speakeasy meeting, learning how to use the blog.  Key thing learned today: "Don't click on the 'Save' icon."  It does not Save.  It breaks hearts.

Patience is not one of my virtues.  An ability to accessorize?  Sure.  But to say I've been "patiently" waiting for the day when we could finally get the Jazz88.3 blog up and running wouldn't be a correct characterization.  Foaming at the mouth?  Maybe.  Pestering webguy Michael incessantly?  Yes.

When you work at a non-profit, patience is a must.  Things just don't happen as quickly as you want them to, whether it's from lack of funds, lack of staffing, or any number of bureaucratic loopholes.  We've been working to improve our website for quite some time now, and an ongoing blog has been one of the key components.  As an avid blogger in my personal life, I couldn't wait to connect with Jazz88.3 fans in a way that allows them to see the a bit behind-the-scenes.  I'm thrilled the blog is finally here, with many more exciting web developments to come!

2010 has already started off with a bang at Jazz88.3.  Next week Henry "The Skipper" Franklin comes to Jazz Live, and we couldn't be more delighted.  He was here a few years back, played to a sold out crowd, and went down as one of the best shows we've ever had.

In the Development Office, we're pursuing grants to help bolster our education initiatives in the community, we're working on informing our listeners about the Hope Shaw Legacy Society (a way to make a planned estate gift to KSDS), and we're getting ready for a very fun event at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts for our Leadership Circle--starring Ed Asner!

The Membership Department is eagerly planning the Spring Membership Campaign, and continues to strive to make it a time of year that doesn't elicit groans but rather begs the question "what interesting twists will they come up with next?" 

But now, I've gotta skedoodle and get to writing this week's edition of The Speakeasy!  See you next time!

Since I'm not a professional writer it's easy to dismiss anything I might type about Thelonious Monk. I have no particular insight into his career or his life. Nothing to reveal about "'Round Midnight" or his singular style on piano. Instead of typing, let me try telepathy.

I'm not going to tell you that you're going to love Monk's music. Maybe you've already made up your mind. Do a quick personal inventory. See if there's a little room for something fun and serious, something surprising and traditional. Go ahead, give it a shot.

With a computer it's easy to dig in. Spell it right the first time, "Thelonious Monk." Then listen, especially the solo stuff. Read some of the history or stories about Monk. Watch a documentary. At least watch until you find the scene on a bus in Copenhagen, I think, when Johnny Griffin shows his new pants to Monk. So worth it.

This Friday, Jazz88 begins their Fall Membership Campaign.  Stay tuned for information on how you can win an I-Pod Nano.

Finally, the new blog is available on our web site. Please bookmark and check out this page frequently, as we will keep you informed not only about everything that happens in the Jazz scene in San Diego, but in the Jazz world in general.