Interview: River Eckert

Sixteen-year-old New Orleans pianist River Eckert speaks with KGNU’s Joanne Cole ahead of his Colorado debut at the Nederland Wine & Jazz Fest. He talks about growing up surrounded by New Orleans musicians and music and his early start on piano. He also mentions his father’s influence and the musicians who have shaped his playing, including Fats Domino, Huey “Piano” Smith, Dr. John, James Booker, Professor Longhair, Jon Batiste, and Harry Connick Jr. Eckert also talks about his connection to New Orleans’ musical tradition and his experiences performing outside his hometown (Air Date 8/21/26).