WTJU,  the University of Virginia’s community radio station, is holding its annual Jazz Marathon and pledge drive Sept. 24-30. The station will feature live studio performances and ’round-the-clock jazz and blues specials all week long at 91.1 FM and WTJU.net.

“WTJU’s 2012 Jazz Marathon will feature a wide variety of jazz and blues styles, from vocalists that scat to strings that swing,” said David Eisenman, the station’s jazz and blues director. “You’re bound to hear something exciting you’ve never heard before. Each hour is a new destination to visit with more discoveries to make.”

WTJU will air live, in-studio performances in one-of-a-kind sessions each evening of the marathon from 7 to 9 p.m. Other programs throughout the week will focus on some of the most important live recordings in the history of jazz.

“Jazz is a key part of WTJU and a key part of American culture. It’s a spontaneous, exciting, and living musical expression,” said Nathan Moore, WTJU general manager. “To keep this programming alive in Charlottesville, we needs our listeners’ support. The annual Jazz Marathon is one of the key fundraisers that make our work possible.”

A few of the special guests and scheduled shows during WTJU’s Jazz Marathon include:

• ACME Swing Manufacturing Company
• The Houston Ross Trio
• Robert Jospe, John D’earth, Stephanie Nakasian and Hod O’Brien
• Richmond blues guitarist Ivan Appelrouth
• Shows hosted by former DJs Tom Morgan (“The Bartender”) and Aer Stephen

The full schedule of live performances and all our Jazz Marathon specials is online at WTJU.net. WTJU encourages listeners to donate online or by calling 434-924-3959 during the marathon. Donations are tax-deductible, and go a long way toward ensuring WTJU stays strong and independent.

WTJU presents original, rich and diverse programming of music and other forms of expression free from the direct constraints of commercial interests, reflecting the broadest educational goals of the University.