Title
Recognizing and honoring the Late Jeff Duperon, a beloved ambassador of Jazz music in Philadelphia.
Body
WHEREAS, On June 17, 2019 Jeff Duperon departed this life following a battle with cancer, leaving his family, friends and Philadelphia's jazz community to mourn the loss of one of its greatest and most beloved ambassadors; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Duperon hosted the "In a Mellow Tone," "Jukebox Jazz," and "Noveau Jazz Showcase" shows on 90.1 WRTI, in which he shared his incredible knowledge of and passion for jazz with countless listeners over the radio three to four hours at a time; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Duperon was born and raised in New Orleans, where his love of jazz, R&B, zydeco, gospel, classical, and funk music germinated. He began his radio career there as a morning drive-time announcer on WWOZ-AM. After graduating from Tulane University in 1996, Duperon found a home in Philadelphia, immediately becoming involved with WRTI; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Duperon volunteered at community and public radio stations for over 15 years, effectively using the medium of radio to cultivate and educate jazz audiences. He also sought to educate younger generations about jazz, developing a jazz studies curriculum taught at Bluford Elementary School in West Philadelphia and Young Scholars Charter School in the Poplar neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Duperon was one of the Philadelphia jazz community's most recognizable, well-regarded personalities. He frequently attended, hosted, and booked acts at jazz venues around the region; and
WHEREAS, Jeff Duperon was the Board President and then the Executive Director of Jazz Bridge, a nonprofit organization that supports jazz and blues musicians in need through funds and services. Every third Wednesday of the month, Duperon hosted Jazz Bridge's Neighborhood Concert Series in Roxborough with Rhenda Fearrington. The concert series spotlighted local jazz musicians, and all proceeds went towards supporting the work of Jazz Bridge; ...
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