The Birthplace of Jazz
Jazz...the sound that put New Orleans on the map, musically speaking! It's a distinctive sound--not big-band swing, with horns creating harmony. Nor is it modern jazz or "bebop," the post-World War II style that relies on speeding tempos and virtuoso soloing. And it's not "pop" music, the form of music from the pre-rock 'n roll days.
New Orleans jazz is a style of music. Almost any song can be "jazzed up" with a New Orleans beat. Jazz was originally music for dancing, not listening, even though that is what modern jazz became in the 1950s and beyond. New Orleans jazz has a swinging, stomping, syncopated beat that makes you want to dance! It also has a simple melodic quality that, to some, sounds dated.
New Orleans jazz is also played by brass bands--the kind we hear in our Mardi Gras street parades. They rely on wind instruments and separate bass and snare drums, all of which can be carried on foot.
Maison Bourbon Jazz Club
A Vieux Carre Venue, the famous Maison Bourbon Jazz Club is one of only two jazz clubs still existing on Bourbon Street, where tourists flock to be entertained by accomplished jazz performers..jpg)
My Bar @635
A Vieux Carre Venue, My Bar @635 offers genuine New Orleans music every night of the week, from jazz and blues to Cajun/Zydeco and R&B. Venture out back to enjoy My Bar's petite courtyard in between sets!
House of Blues
Though other cities may have a House of Blues, New Orleans' is unique! Adorned with 298 pieces of folk art--the largest collection in the country--House of Blues regularly hosts regional, national and international acts in an intimate venue.
The Bombay Club
This upscale, cozy club, decorated in a British gentlemen's tastes, boasts it all: great drinks, delicious food and nightly live music. Come relax and enjoy one of the Bombay Club's many specialty cocktails.
Mulate's
With music every night of the week and authentic Cajun fare to fill your stomach while you treat your ears, Mulate's is a good place to bring the whole family. Hear genuine Acadian music from the bayou, and view local artwork on display.
Mardi Gras Records
Mardi Gras Records has specialized in the rich musical heritage of Lousiana since 1977. All of our music comes to you directly from New Orleans. Mardi Gras Records has specialized in the rich musical heritage of Lousiana since 1977. All of our music comes to you directly from New Orleans.
Crescent City Brewhouse
New Orleans' first brewpub! Open since 1991, this venerated location is a great place to dine, drink Louisiana craft beer, and hear nightly live jazz.The Traditional Jazz Band
The front line:
- Trumpet or cornet - carries the melody
- Clarinet - harmonizes above the melody
- Trombone - punctuates the melody from below
The rhythm section:
- Drums - keeps a steady beat
- Bass (upright or brass tuba/sousaphone) - holds the sound together
- Guitar, piano, or banjo - provides chord structure and harmonic support
What sets jazz apart from the music that preceded it is the way the first jazz musicians improvised. The music became a vehicle of personal expression for both musicians and dancers.
In 1976, jazz historian Al Rose wrote a definition of New Orleans-style jazz, which was eventually adopted by the city government. It reads: "Jazz is two or more musical voices improvising collectively in two-four or four-four time on any known melody and 'syncopating.' "
Meanwhile, the Louisiana State Museum at the Old U.S. Mint gives us this definition: "New Orleans jazz is a performance art based on the musical elements of syncopation, improvisation, blues scale, call-and-response, rhythm, tone color, harmony and interpretation."
- Live music listings on NewOrleansLateNight.com
- Interview with Pete Fountain: Our beloved legendary clarinet player speaks on his life and his music
- Information on Jazz Fest schedule and performers.
- Tulane University's Archive of New Orleans Jazz: an internationally renowned resource for New Orleans jazz research
- Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra: Check here for the calendar of events for this nonprofit organization, which contributes to the diverse musical and cultural fabric of the city of New Orleans and the state of Louisiana by providing great classical music performances.
- Not all great jazz is found in New Orleans, and not all great jazz festivals are held at the New Orleans Fair Grounds! Check out this site: The Hot Steamed Jazz Festival. It's nonprofit organization, with all proceeds benefiting Paul Newman's "The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp" for children with cancer and blood diseases. Go by and pass a good time.
- Historical Recordings of Cajun Music with recommendations and mp3s!
