Jazz Break at Noon Archive - March 9 - 13, 2026

Archived Broadcast: March 9-13, 2026

This week on The Jazz Break at Noon, we honor the late San Antonio jazz icon, guitarist Paulette Ann "Polly" Harrison (June 21, 1949 – February 20, 2026). Over a distinguished five-decade-long career, Polly became a foundational pillar of the San Antonio jazz scene, leaving an enduring mark on our community and in the lives of countless musicians through her beloved live performances, studio recordings, and dedicated mentorship.

Beginning her journey as a 6-string jazz guitarist, Polly eventually transitioned to a Benedetto 7-string guitar, a move that placed her among the global elite of the instrument. Our remembrance follows Polly and her playing through her most essential recordings, beginning with a rare 1983 all-star session, San Antonio Jazz. We’ll celebrate her over 40-year partnership with the late drummer and vocalist Kyle Keener. Through interviews, guest appearances, and recordings, we’ll explore the evolution of their duo, Small World, from their early residency at La Mansion del Norte in the late 1970s to their final 'jam session' years at the famed Olmos Pharmacy in 2017.

We’ll listen to Polly’s intricate Bossa Nova phrasing on Um Abraco do Jobim (recorded November–December 1997) and catch her and the Small World Sextet Live at the Landing in 1998. Our curated set also includes the lush vocal harmonies of The Four Freshmen’s Snowfall (2007), as we remember Polly as a gifted guitarist. She was an artist who prioritized harmonic accompaniment over "hot solos," a philosophy demonstrated with mastery in our selections for the week. We’ll highlight Polly with Curtis Calderon, Ron Wilkins, Sebastian Campesi, Martin Schwacha, and many more.

Polly’s legacy is defined by her incredible chordal knowledge, her unwavering commitment to swing, and her guiding hand as a teacher and mentor, delivered with a gentle spirit on the bandstand. Through her work, Polly impacted the lives of several generations of players who continue to carry the Small World lessons into the future of jazz. Join us as we remember guitarist Polly Harrison. Hosted by JJ Lopez.

Listen to the full broadcast playback below!
 

Monday

Early Works & The Duo Synergy: We explore the 1980s San Antonio jazz landscape and the foundational synergy between Polly and the late Kyle Keener.

• Listening Session: Rare recordings from the all-star 1983 session, San Antonio Jazz, recorded right here in San Antonio.

Tuesday

The Landing & Scat Cat Records Years: 1998 stands as a well-documented year for Polly’s work with Small World. .

• Listening Session: Featuring a high-fidelity live Sextet recording from the legendary Jim Cullum’s Landing on the San Antonio Riverwalk and more.

Wednesday

The Quiet Accompanist: Polly’s mastery often shone brightest when she was supporting others.

• Special Guests: Vocalist/KRTU host Joan Carroll and jazz historian Richard Markow.
• Listening Session: Spotlighting Polly as the premier accompanist for Ron Wilkins, Joe Posada, and Ken Slavin

Thursday

National Legends & Local Tributes: We examine Polly’s reach beyond San Antonio, including her work with one of the most famous vocal groups in jazz history.

• Special Guests: Vocalist/Trumpeter Curtis Calderon and journalist Jim Beal Jr.
• Listening Session: Recordings of Polly with Small World, The Four Freshmen, plus a special tribute from the San Antonio jazz community.

Friday

Olmos Circle & Final Legacy: We conclude the week with the voices of those who shared the bandstand with Polly during her final residency years.

• Special Guests: Barry Brake, Richard Oppenheim, Martin Schwacha, and Chuck Moses.
• Listening Session: Exclusive interview segments of Polly and Kyle on KRTU plus previously unreleased studio and live recordings.