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Russell Perry
Long-time radio host, compulsive collector and beginning tenor player.
About Me
Highly regarded architect and recognized sustainable design expert, Russell Perry has taken a deep dive into jazz history in retirement. The results of his studies have become the radio program Jazz at 100 on WTJU Charlottesville, Virginia 91.1 FM.
My Jazz Story
I was first exposed to jazz at home as a child. My father had experienced the 52nd Street New York scene in the late 40s as a college student (his roommate was a student of Oscar Pettiford!). He had several jazz albums and shared his enthusiasm for the music. I got really involved as an announcer in college radio (WTJU Charlottesville), with an amazing collection at my fingertips. My advice to new listeners - remember that this is music to dance to, music to dream to, music to fall in love to, music to laugh to, music to cry to, music of indignation and protest, music of delight and joy. Don't be intimidated by it, feel it.