New Orleans’ own WWOZ-FM is kicking off its 2015-2016 season of Cuttin’ Class, a radio program that shines the spotlight on high school brass bands across the Greater New Orleans area.

One Thursday a month at noon, a different youth band will broadcast live from OZ’s French Quarter studios. The half hour sets include three different songs as well as live interviews with the student musicians and band directors.

Said Cuttin’ Class co-producer Nita Ketner in a press statement,  “WWOZ felt it was important to reach out to the schools and include them in our programming. After all, our high school band departments nurture the future generations of New Orleans musicians that will carry on our musical and cultural traditions. We also want to highlight the band directors who are among our city’s numerous unsung heroes. …they are giving our kids skills they will use throughout their lifetimes, even if they pursue careers outside of music.”

Here’s the lineup through the end of 2015:

•      September 17th: Edna Karr High School (Band Director, Christopher Herrero)
•      October 15th: Warren Easton Charter High School (Band Director, Asia Muhaimin)
•      November 12th: Trombone Shorty Music Academy (Band Director, Erion Williams)
•      December 17th: KIPP – Central City Academy (Band Director, Joshua Speight)

Edna Karr HS at WWOZ. Photo by RHRPhoto.com