SC Public Radio expands Rapp on Jazz to a permanent daily segment celebrating jazz music
April 14, 2025
SC Public Radio has announced that Rapp on Jazz, originally introduced as a special limited series airing each April during National Jazz Appreciation Month, is now a permanent fixture on the SC Public Radio network. The one-minute radio segment airs weekdays at 6:50 a.m., 8:50 a.m., 1:39 p.m. and 5:48 p.m. across all SC Public Radio stations. Hosted by Mark Rapp, executive director of the ColaJazz Foundation and host of ColaJazz Presents, the segment spotlights key moments in jazz history, with a special focus on the pivotal role South Carolina has played in shaping the genre.
Listeners can expect insightful highlights that capture the essence of jazz — its history, its legends and its future. While Rapp on Jazz began as a seasonal celebration, its transition to a year-round segment reflects SC Public Radio’s commitment to honoring this uniquely American art form and ensuring its stories and sounds remain accessible to all.
Mark Rapp is a renowned trumpeter, composer, arranger and band leader. Through his work with the ColaJazz Foundation, Rapp has fostered jazz education, organized events and collaborated with legendary artists such as Chris Potter, Wycliffe Gordon and Delfeayo Marsalis. His passion for both performance and education has earned him recognition as an Ambassador of Jazz for South Carolina.
A production by SC Public Radio, production funding for Rapp on Jazz is provided by Layman Poupard Publishers and the ETV Endowment of South Carolina.
In addition to broadcasting weekdays on SC Public Radio’s network, the segments will be available to listen to on the SC Public Radio website. Visit the SC Public Radio website to learn more about Rapp on Jazz or listen to the latest segment.
“SC Public Radio is proud to expand Rapp on Jazz from a limited series to a permanent segment. This evolution not only celebrates jazz as an art form but also honors South Carolina’s deep and lasting contributions to its evolution. We believe this is an important step in keeping the spirit of jazz alive and accessible to all.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“Jazz is a vital thread in the fabric of American music, and Rapp on Jazz brings these stories and sounds to life in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. We are thrilled to share this journey with our listeners.” –SC Public Radio Director Sean Birch
“It’s an honor to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Marian McPartland and Miles Hoffman under the direction and leadership of Shari Hutchinson, Sean Birch, and the team at SC Public Radio. Rapp on Jazz is a brilliant way for us to open the doors to the exciting, powerful, and important world of jazz. Its rich history and impact throughout the world—and as you’ll hear, South Carolina—revealed in bite-sized segments, will leave you with a far deeper appreciation of our American art form and expand your worldview.” –Rapp on Jazz host Mark Rapp
- Rapp on Jazz now airs four times daily on weekdays: 6:50 a.m., 8:50 a.m., 1:39 p.m. and 5:48 p.m.
- Originally a special limited series for National Jazz Appreciation Month, Rapp on Jazz is now a permanent segment.
- Rapp on Jazz is hosted by Mark Rapp, executive director of the ColaJazz Foundation and host of ColaJazz Presents.
- The segment highlights jazz history year-round, with a focus on South Carolina’s contributions to the genre.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state’s public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
