Mr. Rogers and Jazz

I grew up a kid of the 80's, and particularly (like so many of us) watching Mr. Rogers. I have him to thank for my appreciation of jazz music. I wanted to ask the community, what albums do you feel most capture the style of jazz that could be heard on Mr. Rogers. A particular track that I dug recently was 'Strange Meadow Lark' off of Dave Brubeck's album Time Out. Another track from the same album, 'Kathy's Waltz' might fit as well. I know that vibraphones could be heard on the show as well. Maybe a track or album by Milt Jackson, perhaps? I'd like to build a playlist from your suggestions. Thanks everybody!!

 

You'd probably enjoy some of Bill Evans' trio work. The Waltz for Debby LP is a good starting point. Evans pretty much created the style of piano jazz heard on the show's soundtrack.

 

The Music of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood and Johnny Costa - JazzTimes

 

A lot of Ahmad Jamal's early stuff for sure.

 

Thank you so much for this

 

The musical guests (and sometimes other artists) Mr. Rogers had on his show, set it far above the usual infantile TV shows for children, much of which I couldn't stand watching as a little kid.

 

Good recs above. I'll give you a few more you might like:

Warren Bernhardt

 

Vince Guaraldi

 

Art Lande

 

Erroll Garner

 

John Lewis

 

I really appreciate the suggestions Terrapin Station

 

Mr. Rogers' pianist used many Bill Evans-esque chord voicings. Evans is probably closest to what the OP is seeking.