Broadcasting Students Produce American Eagle Awards Program

This past spring, Broadcasting Department chair David Sanders once again produced the National Music Council’s American Eagle Awards and Leadership in Music Symposium.  The event provided a select group of Montclair State University broadcasting students the opportunity to work with and interview music and entertainment industry leaders as they gathered to honor Cuban-American jazz star Paquito D’Rivera, legendary pop producer Nile Rodgers (Madonna, David Bowie, Diana Ross, Chic), and folk icon Peter Yarrow (Peter, Paul & Mary) at the Council’s 30th annual awards luncheon at New York City’s Edison Ballroom.

The NMC’s American Eagle Awards are presented each year in recognition of significant contribution to the musical culture and heritage of the United States. Sanders explained individual recipients are honored not only for their accomplishments in music.

“[Awardees are honored] not just for the incredible gifts they have given generations of music lovers throughout the world with their creative output… but also for their dedication in encouraging young musicians – and potential musicians – through their great support and commitment to education,” Sanders said.

In past years, Montclair State University broadcast majors working with Professor Sanders on the event have produced interviews with such industry luminaries as Bill Cosby, Clive Davis, Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock, Roberta Flack, Kenny Rogers, Dave Brubeck, Sister Sledge and Suzanne Vega – affording students the ability to graduate with production reels that includes A-list celebrity content.

Video from the event shot by  Montclair State University Broadcasting majors featuring Peter Yarrow singing "Don’t Laugh at Me," are part of the University’s anti-bullying webcast on December 9.