Jazz Pianist George Shearing

Shearing was born blind and began learning piano at age 4. Both practical limitations and prejudice kept him from playing certain kinds of gigs. But during World War II, while many fellow musicians served in the military, Shearing was given more opportunities to work. He later moved to the United States to further his career.

In part two of our interview, Batiste joins us from the piano and plays some of his favorite Christmas songs. He's the former band leader and music director for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Moran plays from his latest recording, which borrows from the music of James Reese Europe, the composer who led the Harlem Hellfighters regiment band during WWI. Originally broadcast Aug. 7, 2023.