New medical Q and A show on public radio

WJCT Public Media today announced its newest original program and local production, “What’s Health Got to Do with It?” The program will debut Saturday, September 18 at 4 p.m. on WJCT News 89.9 F.M.

This new weekly, hour-long program will be hosted by Dr. Joe Sirven, an engaging physician / journalist who currently serves as a professor of neurology at the Mayo Clinic’s Florida campus. Each week, Dr. Sirven will explore how health care intersects with our daily lives — helping to guide listeners through an increasingly convoluted medical bureaucracy.

The interview-based show will cover topics such as accessing treatment, finding the right doctor, sustaining good health, getting insurance coverage and seeking a cure for both common and complex medical issues. Listeners will be able to engage with Dr. Sirven through calls, emails and social media, creating a new community around locally focused and solution-driven care.

“Health care is a deeply personal, yet universal, topic. Here in Northeast Florida, it’s also woven into our civic landscape, cultural identity and quality of life,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT Public Media. “We’re eager to start this new journey with Dr. Sirven, and look forward to engaging our neighbors in healthy dialogue through this show.”

In addition to his role with the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Sirven serves on the editorial board of Brain & Life and is editor-in-chief of Brain & Life en Espanol. . Earlier in his career, he was the editor-in-chief of Epilepsy.com and served as a medical contributor for NBC Latino and KJZZ radio (the NPR affiliate for Phoenix and Tucson). To learn more about Dr. Sirven, click here.

"This past year has reminded the entire world of the importance of health and health care. And it has convinced me there is a dire need for accurate, up-to-date medical and health information from trusted sources,” said Dr. Sirven. “That is why I am excited to help bring ’What's Health Got to Do with It?’ to WJCT Public Media’s audiences, so they can hear from practicing doctors and other members of the health care sphere. Our program is intended for the listener who has questions they want answered, as well as listener-generated topics.  Northeast Florida — this is your medical show."

“What’s Health Got to Do with It?” will air every Saturday at 4 p.m. on WJCT News 89.9 and re-air Sundays at 9 p.m. Episodes will also be available on-demand at news.wjct.org/programs/whats-health-got-do-it, through the WJCT app and as a podcast on wjct.org/podcasts, or any commonly available podcast platform.

“What’s Health Got to Do with It?” is sponsored in part by the American Brain Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation Florida and Neurelis. For more information, visit news.wjct.org/programs/whats-health-got-do-it, join the conversation at (904) 358-6362 (6DOC), email your questions and comments to health@wjct.org and join the conversation on social media at @jsirven on Twitter and WJCTJax on Facebook.

About WJCT Public Media: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

 

WJCT public media expands with local talent

WJCT Public Media recently expanded the Jacksonville Music Experience with a new online platform dedicated to local music and curation. The refreshed platform includes new features and weekly updates, giving users a continuous range of music to discover and enjoy. JME’s team of featured contributors boasts decades of experience in the local music scene, and includes journalists, broadcasters, performers and impresarios.

The Jacksonville Music Experience launched in 2020 to connect listeners with a locally curated selection of programs that can be accessed on the air through WJCT Public Media’s HD radio stations (Classical 24, Anthology, and Electro Lounge), on demand through the WJCT app, online at jaxmusic.org, Music Thursday television programming on Jax PBS and even in person as concert programming returns to the First Coast. The expanded online platform now features new and improved features, including:

Main Features: Longform profiles of local musicians, feature stories and think pieces that provide context to broad, music-related topics and how they impact Jax's music ecosystem — from emerging hip-hop artists like L.O.V.E. Culture and Aalana, to established local favorites like producer Ryan Turk and Jonathan Grant Berlin of Sunbears! Fame.
The Local Spotlight: Short-form music reviews of new releases by local artists.
Local Music Calendar: Recommendations of concerts to see at local venues with useful and actionable information, like artist introductions, venue info and links to purchase tickets.
WJCT Soundstage Events: Information about upcoming concerts and opportunities to engage with local artists.
Today in Music History:  Significant musical moments, updated daily.
Electro Lounge Radio Playlist: The best in chill, downtempo and more from David Luckin.
JME DJ Sessions: Once a month on First Coast Connect with Melissa Ross, JME Contributors introduce listeners to the beautiful noise emanating from Northeast Florida with a selection of new releases from local artists.
Fresh Squeeze Playlist: Curated selections of new music from local, regional, national and global artists, including songs from First Coast Connect’s JME DJ Sessions — all hand-picked by JME contributors.
Crate Diggin': JME contributors will dig through their vinyl collections to discuss rare or significant albums based on a unique theme (Examples: Unsung Summer Albums, Guilty Pleasures, Pressed to Impress).
JME Twitter Feed: Follow @JMEJaxMusic for the latest  content from jaxmusic.org as well as topical and buzz-worthy music news from other sites.
JME Recommends: JME contributors will introduce readers to the most intriguing local artists in various genres.

“The Jacksonville Music Experience is specifically designed for fans of all genres to discover and enjoy the most in-depth, diverse and local selection possible,” says David Luckin, WJCT Public Media’s Music Director. “With these new features that are easy to access online, Northeast Florida listeners will be able to customize every aspect of their music experience, learn more about music history and broaden their everyday playlists.”

Please visit jaxmusic.org, to explore the site and sign up for future JME updates. In celebration of the launch, WJCT Public Media is also hosting an Amazon Echo giveaway campaign to encourage music lovers in Northeast Florida to sign up to receive future JME music updates (Contest runs from June 8 through June 22. See rules for details).

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow.

 

NPR and WJCT Public Media Celebrate 50th Anniversary

The first broadcast of NPR's All Things Considered took place on May 3, 1971. That day more than 20,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C., to protest against the Vietnam War. NPR journalists covered the day's events, producing a 24-minute sound portrait of what was happening which was inducted in 2017 into the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress for its place in U.S. audio heritage.

In 1971, NPR debuted with nearly 90 founding Member stations, 55 employees, and fewer than 2 million listeners. (WJCT-FM signed on a year later, in 1972) Now, more than 60 million people access NPR content for free on multiple platforms each week. Through its network of Member stations, NPR provides an essential service to local communities and those seeking vital information during emergencies.

To celebrate this milestone with their listeners, NPR and WJCT Public Media will feature a series of special programming and celebrations on WJCT News 89.9.

NPR50 PROGRAMMING:

Fifty and Forward: A one-hour broadcast special that stations can air between April 30 - December 31.

NPR grew up alongside a post-Watergate journalism ethos that shaped the media industry for decades. Hosted by Audie Cornish and featuring other NPR journalists, we'll unpack that ethos: how it developed in the newsroom and changed over time, through today. Analytical, critical and forward thinking, this program tells the story of NPR's history in the context of the growth of modern media.

We Hold These Truths: At a moment when American society feels particularly divided, and the political system particularly fragile, we propose an examination of American democracy and how people participate in it. Through a special series of host pieces, character profiles and conversations, we will explore how one learns about democracy, how one gains a stake in a democratic system, and how democracy falls short.

Many NPR podcasts and shows will mark the NPR50 in an authentic, unique way throughout the year. Starting this week you can expect:

●     1A will spend an hour examining the past 50 years of NPR, featuring thought-provoking interviews with some of the industry’s founding leaders. It will then spend a second hour looking at the future of NPR, speaking to fresh voices both in and outside of the industry. They’ll also make space for 1A’s most dedicated listeners – and ask what they want to hear from public radio in the years ahead. Both hours will honor the organization while acknowledging NPR’s historical weak spots, and exploring how they’re being addressed now – and how they may change in the decades ahead.”

●     To commemorate NPR50, World Cafe takes a trip into the musical time machine back to the year 1971. Considered by music fans and critics to be one of the greatest years in music, 1971 saw the release of significant albums by Marvin Gaye, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, Sly & The Family Stone, and others. Host Raina Douris turns back the hands of time for this two-hour musical journey to 1971. A companion playlist of the Best Songs from 1971, curated by stations, will be available on NPR Music.

Follow along and share your NPR anniversary wishes and stories using the hashtag #NPR50. For a full list of WJCT News 89.9 programming, visit news.wjct.org/schedule.

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

About NPR: NPR, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, is widely known for its rigorous reporting and unsurpassed storytelling that connects with millions of Americans every day — on the air, online, and in-person. NPR strives to create a more informed public — one challenged and invigorated by a deeper understanding and appreciation of events, ideas, and cultures. With a nationwide network of award-winning journalists and 17 international bureaus, NPR and its Member Stations are never far from where a story is unfolding. Listeners can find NPR by tuning in to their local Member stations (npr.org/stations), and now on smart speaker devices -- where listeners can simply say, “Play NPR” to tune into their local Member station’s live stream. Users can also access NPR podcasts, NPR One, NPR News Now, and the Visual Newscast on screened speakers. For more information visit npr.org/about and follow NPR Extra on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

WJCT Kids Writers Contest extended

WJCT Public Media this week announced the submission deadline for the 2021 WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest has been extended. The organization will accept entries through April 15, 2021.

Starting its 27th year, the annual contest invites students in grade K-3 to submit their original writing and illustrations. The 2020 contest collected over 200 stories from Florida, Georgia, and other parts of the country as far away as California and Alaska.

The annual contest is an initiative designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning and is open to any child in grades K-3 who writes and illustrates their own story.

All writers and illustrators, who enter and meet the requirements of the contest, will have their work published online at wjct.org and receive a certificate. First-, second- and third-place awards will be presented for stories from each grade level; winners will also receive a WJCT PBS Kids prize pack, the opportunity to create a video reading of their story and an invitation to share their story live at Be My Neighbor Day on Saturday, May 9. Winning stories will be eligible for the People’s Choice grand prize, a $100 savings bond.

“WJCT Public Media is proud to provide a platform for our youngest neighbors to share their unique stories through the WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT. “Through this contest, we hope to inspire students and their communities to experience the joy of creativity.”

For more information, including official rules and tools to help students create their stories, visit wjct.org/writerscontest.

About WJCT:  WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

About PBS KIDS: PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, digital platforms and community-based programs. Kidscreen- and Webby Award-winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including digital games and streaming video. PBS KIDS also offers mobile apps to help support young children’s learning. The PBS KIDS Video app is available on a variety of mobile devices and on platforms such as YouTube, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Android TV, Xbox One and Chromecast. For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org/pressroom, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

WJCT News 89.9 achieves a new record

WJCT Public Media announced today that its flagship FM station, WJCT News 89.9, achieved a record share of the radio listening audience in the Jacksonville DMA, as measured by Neilsen between January 7 and February 3, 2021.

WJCT News 89.9 is now the top station in the market for adults ages 25-54 in both mornings and afternoons. The station’s overall share advanced to 6.2%, a station record that moves it into a tie for fourth place in the market overall.  Steady performance improvements were recorded in every day part, with mornings performing especially well (8% audience share) — representing third place in the Jacksonville market for the January ratings block.

WJCT News 89.9 has introduced new programming to its mid-day and evening lineup, and additional local newscasts throughout the day every Monday through Friday. WJCT Public Media debuted the station’s new name, WJCT News 89.9, last summer; the station was formerly known as WJCT-FM.

The record-setting audience share numbers are accompanied by multi-year highs in total audience, as broadcast radio listening continues its recovery toward pre-pandemic levels. WJCT News 89.9 has also seen an acceleration of its growth in streaming audience through smart speakers, the WJCT app, and on the web this period, with January’s streaming audience growing by more than 30% year-over-year.

“We are delighted to welcome so many new listeners to WJCT News 89.9 over these last several months,” said David McGowan, CEO of WJCT Public Media. “It’s gratifying to see great programming attracting a larger, more diverse audience, and we’re building on that growth every day.”

For a full list of WJCT News 89.9 programming, visit news.wjct.org/schedule.

About WJCT Public Media: WJCT Public Media is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

WJCT hosts virtual conversation “The Black Church”

WJCT Public Media today announced it will host a community conversation and launch an interactive initiative in connection with “The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song,” the upcoming PBS documentary series by Dr. Henry Louis Gates. The community conversation, titled “Sights, Sounds, and Spirit of the Black Church,” will be held virtually on February 15 at 7 p.m., and is funded by a grant from the Corporation of Public Broadcasting.

Lynn Sherman, Director of Social Responsibility and Community Engagement at Baptist Health, will host the community conversation, which will feature panelists Jeff Boddie, Associate Director of Worship, Downtown, at Shiloh Church, Bishop Charles Bernard Eichelberger Sr., Pastor & Founder at Cathedral of Deliverance, and Ben Frazier, President & Founder of Northside Coalition of Jacksonville. Registration for this free virtual event is open at wjct.org/events/blackchurch.

“Northeast Florida’s diversity is its strength, and WJCT Public Media is proud to host this conversation centered around the connections between faith and community, and between our community’s history and its future,” said David McGowan, President of WJCT Public Media. “We encourage our neighbors to join us in exploring and celebrating the cultural and historical importance of local Black churches and their musical traditions to our region, as part of WJCT Public Media’s celebration of Black History Month.”

Additionally, WJCT Public Media invites members of churches across Northeast Florida to record and share a video that is five minutes or less in length that explains what the black church means to them. The stories will be archived in the Florida Collection at the Jacksonville Public Library through February 28. Videos may be submitted at wjct.org/blackchurch.

“The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song” is a four-hour documentary series tracing the 400-year history of the Black church in America, produced by McGee Media, Inkwell Media and WETA Washington, D.C., in association with Get Lifted. The series features interviews with John Legend, Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Hudson, Bishop Michael Curry, Cornel West, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Rev. Al Sharpton, Yolanda Adams, Rev. William Barber II, BeBe Winans, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and more. It premieres at 9 p.m. on February 16 and 17 on WJCT-TV, and PBS stations nationwide, as well as streaming on the PBS app, PBS Passport and PBS.org.

“‘The Black Church’ is a landmark documentary that beautifully illustrates the preeminent role church, faith and spirituality have played in shaping the Black American experience,” said Pat Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. “Through these grants, we are helping public media stations -- public radio as well as public television -- leverage the documentary series to bring together new partners and explore how the role of the Black church has evolved in their communities and impacted our nation.”

“Our series is a riveting and systematic exploration of the myriad ways in which African Americans have worshipped God in their own images, and continue to do so today, from the plantation and prayer houses, to camp meetings and store-front structures, to mosques and mega-churches," said Gates, the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor at Harvard University and director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research. "This is the story and song our ancestors bequeathed to us, and it comes at a time in our country when the very things they struggled and died for — faith and freedom, justice and equality, democracy and grace — all are on the line. No social institution in the Black community is more central and important than the Black church.”

Major corporate support for “The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song” is provided by Johnson & Johnson. Major support is also provided by the Lilly Endowment Inc., Ford Foundation, and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, PBS and public television viewers. Public radio station engagement grants are funded by CPB and administered by the VuHaus Group, a public media music organization of stations. 

“The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song” is presented as part of WJCT Public Media’s celebration of Black History Month. For a full list of programming, visit wjct.org/blackhistory.

WJCT 2021 national PBS Kids writer contest

WJCT Public Media this week announced the launch of the 2021 WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest. The organization will accept entries from January 1 through March 15, 2021. 

Starting its 27th year, the annual contest invites students in grade K-3 to submit their original writing and illustrations. The 2020 contest collected over 200 stories from Florida, Georgia, and other parts of the country as far away as California and Alaska.

The annual contest is an initiative designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning and is open to any child in grades K-3 who writes and illustrates their own story.

All writers and illustrators, who enter and meet the requirements of the contest, will have their work published online at wjct.org and receive a certificate. First-, second- and third-place awards will be presented for stories from each grade level; winners will also receive a WJCT PBS Kids prize pack, the opportunity to create a video reading of their story and an invitation to share their story live at Be My Neighbor Day on Saturday, May 9. Winning stories will be eligible for the People’s Choice grand prize, a $100 savings bond.

“WJCT Public Media is proud to provide a platform for our youngest neighbors to share their unique stories through the WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT. “Through this contest, we hope to inspire students and their communities to experience the joy of creativity.”

For more information, including official rules and tools to help students create their stories, visit their website

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online. Like WJCT on Facebook and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

About PBS KIDS: PBS KIDS, the number one educational media brand for kids, offers all children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television, digital platforms and community-based programs. Kidscreen- and Webby Award-winning pbskids.org provides engaging interactive content, including digital games and streaming video. PBS KIDS also offers mobile apps to help support young children’s learning. The PBS KIDS Video app is available on a variety of mobile devices and on platforms such as YouTube, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Android TV, Xbox One and Chromecast. For more information on specific PBS KIDS content supporting literacy, science, math and more, visit pbs.org/pressroom, or follow PBS KIDS on Twitter and Facebook.

Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood sweater drive delivers

WJCT, in partnership with Suddath®, VyStar Credit Union and the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships, delivered boxes of gently used sweaters, jackets and blankets to three area nonprofits. Deliveries were made to the following locations: Clara White Mission, 613 West Ashley Street, 32202; Sulzbacher Center, 611 East Adams Street, 32202 & City Rescue Mission, 426 McDuff Avenue, 32254.

These items were donated by members of the community during the 18th annual Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive, which ran through November 30, 2020; during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Since its local launch in 2002, the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive has collected more than a quarter million articles of clothing and cold-weather necessities for First Coast residents. In recognition of Be My Neighbor Day, WJCT also distributed backpacks filled with school supplies, books, personal hygiene products, a blanket, and Daniel Tiger socks and mask to children in need in our community. The 2020 version of Be My Neighbor Day was made possible by support from PNC Grow Up Great. Daniel Tiger was also on hand Monday to wave to all his friends.

Representatives from WJCT, Suddath®, VyStar Credit Union and the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships were on-hand along with Councilwoman Ju’Coby Pittman, President and CEO of the Clara White Mission; Cindy Funkhouser, President and CEO of Sulzbacher & Penny Kievet, President and CEO of City Rescue Mission.

With the temperatures in JAX dropping, these three agencies have blessed those who are in need of a little assistance while they look for a way to improve their situations.

Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood 'Sweater Drive'

WJCT, in partnership with VyStar Credit Union Suddath®,  and the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships, has launched the 18th annual Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive. This beloved community tradition, which runs through November 30, collects new and gently used sweaters, jackets and blankets to donate to nonprofit organizations across Duval, Clay, St. Johns and Nassau Counties.

WJCT joins Public Media stations across the United States participating in this event, which celebrates the memory and legacy of Fred Rogers, host of the groundbreaking television show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” In 2019, the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive collected more than 15,000 articles of clothing and cold-weather necessities for First Coast residents.

“Fred Rogers was the epitome of a good neighbor. His trademark red cardigan has become a symbol of compassion and civility — traits that are just as important to our society today as they were when his show debuted more than 50 years ago,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT. “We invite our neighbors across our region of service, from Palm Coast to Georgia’s Golden Isles, to join us in sharing with our neighbors in need this November.”

WJCT will collect donations at its headquarters, located at 100 Festival Park Avenue in Jacksonville. Donations may also be made at area VyStar Credit Union branches, Suddath® offices and Tom Bush dealerships.

“VyStar cares deeply about the communities we serve, and among our strongest beliefs is the importance of providing additional assistance and resources to those who need them most,” said Brian Wolfburg, President/CEO of VyStar Credit Union. “With that in mind, we will once again gladly open our branches to collect gently used items and encourage anyone who is able to participate in this worthwhile initiative to consider making a donation.”

Suddath will use its moving trucks to collect donated items, then bring them back to its Jacksonville warehouse for sorting, before delivering them to participating nonprofits.

“Last year, Suddath added ‘Caring’ as one of our core values, which honors our tradition of philanthropy and giving back to the communities where we operate,” said Dick Eschbacher, president and general manager of Suddath Jacksonville. “We’re particularly grateful to participate in the Sweater Drive this year, when extraordinary circumstances have unfortunately left many of members of our community disadvantaged.”

The Tom Bush Family of Dealerships has been a sweater drive presenting partner since 2017. “We are driven to serve the community we call home,” said Megan Bush Del Pizzo, Vice President of the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships. “Our goal is to ensure every donation goes the distance to help our Northeast Florida neighbors.”

For more information, including a downloadable flier to share with your neighbors and a full list of donation locations, visit wjct.org/events/sweaterdrive/.

DONATION DROP-OFFS:
WJCT - 100 Festival Park Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Suddath - 815 S. Main St, Jax, FL 32207; 8743 Western Way, Jax, FL 32256; 11001 Pritchard Rd. Jax, FL 32219; 9601 North Main St. Jax, FL 32218; 5 W Forsyth St #100, Jax, FL 32202; 9140 Golfside Dr #12s, Jax, FL 32256

VyStar Credit Union - All locations in Duval, St. Johns, Clay, Putnam, Nassau and Bradford Counties

Tom Bush Family of Dealerships - 6916 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL  32244; 6914 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, 32244; 9875 Atlantic Blvd., Jax, FL  32225; 9750 Regency Square Blvd., Jax 32225; 9876 Atlantic Blvd., Jax 32225; 9881 Atlantic Blvd., Jax 32225; 9850 Atlantic Blvd., Jax 32225; 9910 Atlantic Blvd., Jax 32225; 9850 Atlantic Blvd., Jax 32225

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

‘Jake Shimabukuro’ and ‘Orleans’ at the WJCT Soundstage this Fall

Jacksonville, Florida is making plans to bring you some upcoming entertainment to you.  WJCT, in partnership with the Florida Theatre, announces that “Jake Shimabukuro” will perform at the WJCT Soundstage on October 2, 2020 and “Orleans” will perform on Wed., Nov. 11, 2020.  Tickets are available for purchase at wjct.org/events.

Shimabukuro, an award-winning ukulele player whose works have topped Billboard’s World Music Chart on numerous occasions, gained worldwide fame when a 2006 YouTube video of him playing “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” became one of the first-ever viral videos. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including: Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Bette Midler, Cyndi Lauper, Jack Johnson, Ziggy Marley, Dave Koz, Michael McDonald, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Tommy Emmanuel and Marty Friedman.  His most recent album, “The Greatest Day” (2018), features new original instrumental compositions and covers of beloved songs by The Beatles, Ed Sheeran, Jimi Hendrix and Leonard Cohen.

Orleans, an American soft rock band, gained stardom during the 1970s topping charts with their iconic hit singles, “Dance With Me” and “Still the One.” The band’s name evolved from the music it was playing when it formed, which was inspired by Louisiana artists such as Allen Toussaint and the Neville Brothers.

The WJCT Soundstage presents live performances in a unique and intimate setting, from local and international touring musicians, as part of WJCT’s Jacksonville Music Experience.

“Jake’s enchanting musical style resonates with fans of various genres, and patrons will be amazed at Orleans’ performance of their chart-topping hits and unique pop/rock sound,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT.  “We look forward to welcoming Jake Shimabukuro and Orleans to the WJCT Soundstage, and thank our friends at the Florida Theatre for joining us in bringing these world-class musical artists to Jacksonville.”

“Our partnership with WJCT allows us to offer Northeast Florida music fans a unique concert experience that complements the theatre atmosphere. Together, our organizations share a commitment to presenting the highest quality events in a safe and engaging environment,” said Numa Saisselin, President of the Florida Theatre.

Ticket sales may be restricted to ensure social distancing regulations are followed. For more information about the WJCT Soundstage, visit wjct.org/jaxmusic.

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow. For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org. Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

LOCATION:
WJCT Soundstage
100 Festival Park Ave
Jacksonville, FL 32202

WJCT Jazz Festival this weekend

WJCT today announced Jazz Festival Weekend on the Jacksonville Music Experience (JME), which will run through Memorial Day Weekend (May 21-24, 2020), the traditional dates of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jazz Festival Weekend will feature music from some of the biggest names in jazz across WJCT’s television, radio and online platforms. The virtual event will kick off with “Music Thursdays” on WJCT-TV, with programming that showcases performances by a roster of international jazz giants such as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and many others in prime time.

Additional programming will include:
-       Jazz on Electro Lounge Radio (89.9FM HD4, online, and the WJCT app) 24 hours a day from Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24, with live recorded performances at the top of each hour from jazz festivals from around the world featuring jazz legends Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Sade, and many more.
-       Jazz on WJCT 89.9 FM (online, and the WJCT app) on Saturday, May 23 from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.
-       Live local jazz on the Jacksonville Music Experience Facebook group , featuring Northeast Florida artists Chris Thomas Band, Mama Blue, JB Scott and the Lisa Kelly Quintet, and more.  The full schedule of programming for Jazz Festival Weekend on the Jacksonville Music Experience.

“Jazz Festival Weekend is our way of providing jazz fans with the opportunity to enjoy the tradition of great music over the Memorial Day weekend, through a virtual experience,” said David Luckin, Music Director of WJCT.  “We hope this programming through the Jacksonville Music Experience will bring a sense of normalcy and joy to listeners across the First Coast and beyond.”

“Jazz is an integral part of Jacksonville’s cultural identity.  We appreciate WJCT providing this resource to the community, and look forward to safely celebrating this tradition in person in 2021,” said Ryan Ali, Chief of Sports and Entertainment for the City of Jacksonville.

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow.  For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online.  Like WJCT on Facebook and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

About The Jacksonville Music Experience (JME): The Jacksonville Music Experience (JME) is a multi-platform collection of services, providing music fans in Northeast Florida and beyond with a variety of ways to enjoy their favorite artists and discover new genres on air, online, on demand and in person.  For more information on the elements included on the Jacksonville Music Experience from WJCT, visit wjct.org/jaxmusic and join the JME Facebook group.

WJCT Launches the Jacksonville Music Experience

WJCT has announced the launch of the Jacksonville Music Experience, a new multi-platform collection of services, on April 16, 2020 — the inaugural Public Radio Music Day, designated by Congressional Resolutions to recognize the role that local, noncommercial, nonprofit, public radio stations play in connecting artists with communities around the nation.

Through the Jacksonville Music Experience (wjct.org/jaxmusic), WJCT provides music fans in Northeast Florida and beyond with a variety of ways to enjoy their favorite artists and discover new genres on the air, online, on demand and in person. Elements of the Jacksonville Music Experience include:
New Radio Stations Available 24/7: All available at wjct.org and on the WJCT app:
Classical 24® from American Public Media (89.9 HD2) Anthology a hand-curated playlist of music from the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s (89.9 HD3).
Electro Lounge Radio expands WJCT’s flagship music program into a full station of relaxing, downtempo and chillout music (89.9 HD4); also available through Spotify and Apple Music playlists.
Music Thursdays on WJCT-TV: Every Thursday starting at 8 p.m., WJCT-TV broadcasts a curated selection of music programming from PBS, ranging from live concert performances including legendary musicians like Billie Eilish, documentaries like “Country Music” by Ken Burns, series like Austin City Limits, in-depth interviews with artists and more.
Studio 5 Sessions:Following a format similar to NPR Music’s Tiny Desk concert series, Studio 5 Sessions features Northeast Florida artists performing some of their most popular works from WJCT’s very own Studio 5.
The VOIDCAST Podcast: In partnership with Void Magazine, this podcast explores the past and present of music history in Northeast Florida with the help of local musicians, producers and the people who lived through it.  Hosted by Void Magazine Editor Matt Shaw and produced by WJCT’s Special Projects Producer, Lindsey Kilbride, VOIDCAST’s three episodes feature the Allman Brothers Band’s formative period in Jacksonville; locals making music alone in their bedrooms — including one who scored a big record deal; and women and queer people claiming their space in the Northeast Florida hip-hop scene.  All three episodes are available for download on all major podcast platforms.
Live Performances at the WJCT Virtual Soundstage: The WJCT Virtual Soundstage allows music lovers to experience live performances from artists all over Northeast Florida without ever leaving their house.  Performances from local artists like Taylor Roberts, Junco Royals and Luke Peacock were scheduled at 7 p.m. that started April 16th. in celebration of the launch.  For information about scheduled performances, join the JME Facebook Group
Live Performances at the WJCT Soundstage: The WJCT Soundstage provides a unique setting for music fans to experience live performances by regional and national touring artists. Now on hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, recent WJCT Soundstage events included performances by The Rippingtons, Mindo Abair and the Boneshakers, Jesse Cook, and comedian Paula Poundstone.  Details about upcoming performances will be posted as they are available.  For more information, visit wjct.org/jaxmusic.

“Jacksonville has such a vibrant music scene and we want to support it and be part of it in every way we can” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT.  “The launch of the Jacksonville Music Experience is a significant expansion of our locally curated and produced music services, and provides a compelling alternative to the algorithms and tiny playlists of today’s commecial radio.  It also makes for a great way to discover music and artists alongside Spotify and other digital services.”

About WJCT: WJCT is the community-owned and operated public media organization serving Jacksonville and the First Coast since 1958, using television, radio, digital media, and live events to help community members learn, share, and grow.  For more information on WJCT’s in-depth programming content, log on to WJCT Online at wjct.org.  Like WJCT on Facebook (facebook.com/wjctjax) and follow WJCT on Twitter (@WJCTJax) and Instagram (@WJCTJax).

About Public Radio Music Day: Public Radio Music Day is hosted by the noncomMUSIC Alliance and its partners.  The noncomMUSIC Alliance celebrates nonprofit, local public radio’s role in connecting artists with the communities who enjoy and support their music.  Established in 2018, the Alliance currently has nearly 150 partner public radio music stations, all locally owned and operated, yet united by their shared values of music discovery, curation, preservation, performance, and community.  To learn more about the noncomMUSIC Alliance, please visit noncomMUSIC.org.