Fred Rogers, star of the 'Mister Rogers Neighborhood' TV show, sadly, passed away today.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/news/archive/2003/02/27/obituary0428E ST0457.DTL Mr Rogers was not only an ambassador of good & preschool TV teacher, but he was also a terrific musician, who actually composed/performed his own songs for the show, as well as regularly featured musical guests providing my first childhood exposure to jazz & classical music. He took viewers on field trips to orchestras and bands and introduced children to the world of classical & jazz music. Mr Rogers also had a jazz combo that backed him up during his shows. This included Johnny Costa, a man once called 'the white Art Tatum' by Art Tatum himself-- who provided constant accompaniment, as well as the arrangements. If you haven't already, checkout the 'walking around the Neighborhood' music. It's actually really cool. Think of it: a man decked out in a zippered cardigan sweater and blue canvas shoes takin' a walk to some seriously cool jazz riffs. Mr Roger's TV show was my first exposure to, and strong influence for my love of music (especially jazz) today. - Scott
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