Barry Winograd to Retire

WDCB's long-time midday jazz host Barry Winograd will be stepping down from his weekday on-air shift next month after more than 18 years with WDCB. He'll host his last regular shift of ‘DCB Jazz from 10am - 2pm on Friday, September 20. Barry will continue with WDCB as host of his weekly Saturday morning historical jazz program "When Jazz Was King."

Winograd was already an experienced veteran of Chicago jazz radio when he joined WDCB in 2001. His radio career dates back to the 1970s and included lengthy stretches at both WBEZ and WXRT before moving to WDCB. With his deep knowledge of jazz history and intimate understanding of the Chicago jazz scene, he quickly established himself as an audience favorite.

Winograd has successfully continued a parallel career as a jazz musician, performing professionally as a saxophonist and bandleader. With his retirement, he plans to devote more time to musical study, practice and performance.  

"I'd like to thank the jazz community for allowing me to represent America's GREATEST art form for the past 40 plus years on radio in my home, Chicagoland," says Winograd. "I've been very lucky to have experienced many creative and wonderful people in my time at WBEZ, WXRT and WDCB. And I'll still be hosting "When Jazz Was King" on Saturday mornings at 10. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone even more often out in the clubs supporting live jazz!"

Winograd has played an important role in building the Glen Ellyn-based public radio station's audience, and has also served as a tireless ambassador for the station, frequently emceeing jazz events and appearing on behalf of WDCB at venues from public libraries to concert halls.

"Barry is such an important part of who we are as a radio station," says Station Manager Dan Bindert. "We serve an audience that is serious about jazz. His love for this art form is as genuine and sincere as it gets. That comes across every day he's on the air."

While Winograd is stepping down from his daily jazz hosting duties, he'll remain a presence on the station with both his Saturday morning program, as well as being a fill-in host.

WDCB will celebrate Barry Winograd’s radio career during our monthly WDCB Night at the Jazz Showcase on Tuesday, September 10 - featuring the Eric Schneider Quintet. Thanks to sponsorship from Steve Maxwell Vintage & Custom Drums, there is no cover charge. Details at:  WDCB.org