Improvisations
Weekdays from 6:30-8 p.m.
Improvisations, heard weekdays 6:30 to 8 p.m., is produced and hosted locally by Eric Reed (Mondays) Todd Steed (Tuesdays), Paul Parris (Wednesdays), Taber Gable (Thursdays) and Chris Woodhull (Fridays).
Improvisations is curated by a dedicated lineup of jazz fans with over 70 years of jazz radio experience. Our playlists reflect every era of jazz from the earliest New Orleans swing to last week's best releases. We strive to keep the show interesting, listenable, enlightening and entertaining. We love to hear from our listeners and our contact information is located below.
Questions or comments? Email <b>improv@wuot.org</b>
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Mimi Terry stopped by Improvisations to chat with Todd Steed about her jazz piano history, her teacher Donald Brown, and her plans for the future. -
David Lowery has released the heavily biographical Fathers, Sons and Brothers. He talks with Todd Steed about the evolution of the songs, his family history and the music behind his most intimate release yet. -
Gerald Clayton discusses a wide variety of topic, including his newest release, in this interview with Margherita Fava. -
Eric Reed catches up with Todd Steed to talk about his newest release, Out Late. Reed tried a new approach in the recording process that yielded some amazing results. -
Ernest Freeberg reflects on his career as a celebrated author and professor of American History. He's joined by his colleague Monica Black to discuss a celebration of his career to be held at the East Tennessee History Center this Thursday. More details here. -
Melony Dodson, Matthew Motley, Carter Moore and Todd Steed break down the highlights, the joys, the surprises and the possible philosophical ramifications of Big Ears 2025. Highlights? Regrets? It's all here. -
Kris Davis returns to Knoxville for the Big Ears Festival with her trio. Todd Steed finds out what's in store. Her new recording, Run the Gauntlet, is a staff favorite. -
Béla Fleck has become something of a fixture at the Big Ears festival and each appearance is something new. In this interview with Todd Steed he talks about his approach to playing Big Ears and how his new trio is finding their groove. -
Melony Dodson, Matthew Motley, Carter Moore and Todd Steed break down their top picks for Big Ears 2025. Get the strategies on how to plan, where to eat, and how to keep your walking shoes in top operating condition. If you are overwhelmed by the choices, this podcast should be your next stop. -
Jenny Scheinman returns to Big Ears with a new ensemble. She discusses playing the festival and her new recording, the glorious and spacious All Species Parade.
