Save the Date for the next WSIE Jazzathon

Save the Date for the next WSIE Jazzathon

March 7, 2024, 1:15 PM

April is Jazz Appreciation Month and WSIE 88.7 The Sound, broadcasting from the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, will celebrate by hosting "WSIE Jazzathon" Wednesday, April 17^th from 3 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. This event is a primary fundraiser for this heritage station.

WSIE made its on-air debut on Sept. 4, 1970 and has been a fertile training ground for broadcasters, who include some of the greats in the radio broadcast industry. This premier outlet is one of the only stations in the region that presents jazz music from past eras to contemporary, while featuring local artists.

"WSIE is unique in the sense that there are just a few in the country who play music from the 1940's to the 2000's, capturing an audience who just wants to hear good sound," said Robin Boyce, Director of Corporate Sales for the station.

"What this station does is mix R&B, blues, straight-ahead jazz along with a little rock, creating fusion! There is something on air for everyone who is ready to get away from the noise," said Boyce.

Listener donations sustain this station, which offers SIUE students a unique learning opportunity alongside professional radio broadcasters. Funding from the WSIE Jazzathon and other initiatives will underwrite several projects, including a transmitter, new hardware, and software.

Businesses within terrestrial listening area also support the station through advertising. "We are an NPR, community, and public radio music station," said Boyce. "In addition to our loyal business community, listener support even in the amount of a $10 monthly donation would offer critical support," said Boyce.

"Think of it like any of the online media platforms. Just add WSIE to your mix. You are supporting students, jazz music and artists."

The April WSIE Jazzathon has a packed line-up with local jazz artists who are both area performers as well as popular acts on the national music scene. The most recent Jazzathon in November 2023 featured soulful saxophonist Tim Cunningham performing live in studio.

Tune in to the WSIE Jazzathon on April 17^th from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. on WSIE, 88.7 The Sound. Visit the link wsie.com/support to support this more than 50-year jazz institution.

PHOTO: Saxophonist Tim Cunningham performs live at WSIE Jazzathon in WSIE studios, November 2023; Robin Boyce, WSIE's Director of Corporate Sales