I was really excited two years ago when I had the honor of interviewing incoming National Endowment for the Arts “Jazz Master” Gary Burton. His music has influenced me for half a century. Truly an honor. Then, this year, somehow, I surpassed it.
For whatever reasons, of all the jazz musicians, DJs and advocates who could have been selected, and probably should have been, the voice of this humble — well, somewhat humble — aficionado was chosen to narrate this year’s NEA “Jazz Moments.” My voice, although anonymous, introduced the 2018 class of Jazzmasters: Todd Barkin, Joanne Brackeen, Pat Metheny and Dianne Reeves.
These messages are played around the world and revisited year after year by millions with each group of new inductees. Of course, I would love those listeners to know that it was my voice. But most important is that they hear the message presented about moments in jazz history, as told by the Jazz Masters.
I guess my identity as the voice of Jazz Moments 2018 will have to remain our little secret. Shhh…. mums the word!
The Jazz Moments can be heard on: arts.gov/jazz-moments or on iTunes.
