The Music of ‘Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood’ at August Wilson Ctr.; Pirates vs. Rockies (Tues., 4/17/18)

1) Musical scores for television, film, and even commercials are often overlooked, yet they are integral parts of the success or failure of the content material. Case in point is WQED’s “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The children’s (and many adults’) public broadcasting series, which continues on air to this day, featured some amazing music. Virtuoso jazz piano player and arranger, Johnny Costa, was the show’s musical director. Costa played the music live for each program until his death in 1996. Now fellow “Mr. Rogers’” team member Joe Negri (Handyman Negri), a very talented jazz guitarist, is part of a concert paying tribute to the wonderful music Rogers and Costa created for the show. Jevon Rushton is the artist director and one of two drummers for the event. Also performing for An Evening with the Musical Compositions of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood are Carolyn Perteete (vocals), Kenny Peagler (piano), Paul Thompson (bass), Sean Jones (trumpet), and James Johnson (drums). It is part of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s BNY Mellon JazzLive series. This February marked the 50th anniversary of the landmark television program. 8 p.m. August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Cultural District. 

2) Our battlin’ Bucs take on the Colorado Rockies, in the second game of a three-game home stand. Tomorrow the Pirates play the Rockies in a business man’s (and business woman’s) special, a 12:30 p.m. game. First pitch tonight at 7:05 p.m. PNC Park, 115 Federal St., North Shore.

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