Tuesday, December 30, 2008

GRAMMY TIME! Blind Boys of Alabama Nominated for 'Down In New Orleans'

The Blind Boys of Alabama’s latest release, Down In New Orleans, has been nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Gospel Album.

Released on January 29th, Down in New Orleans represents the band’s desire to bring hope to the still-storm-ravaged city and includes performances by some of New Orleans’ finest, including Allen Toussaint, The Hot 8 Brass Band, and The Preservation Hall Jazz Band. “We may not be able to swing a hammer,” explains founding member Jimmy Carter, “but we hope we can help inspire folks with a song.”

Produced by Chris Goldsmith, The Washington Post said of the record, "Inspired and relevant, [Down In New Orleans] borders on the miraculous." USA Today praised the "rousing musical tribute to New Orleans," Rolling Stone called it “A super weapon of roots-music uplift,” while the Toronto Sun gasped that the CD is “Inspirational."

The Blind Boys are currently on their Christmas tour and will be on tour throughout 2009 including performing the National Anthem at the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 5.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Friday, December 12, 2008

On The Road with PHJB #11: A Poster shop in Knoxville

Ben Jaffe guides through a woodprint poster shop in Knoxville while on tour with PHJB.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Snow in New Orleans!









It snowed this morning here in New Orleans. Nobody was sure what to do for the first few hours. But then it stopped and everybody got back to work because it became just wet, cold and nasty. But it was gorgeous while it lasted! Here's some photos of the Preservation Hall courtyard and the French Quarter. Stay warm! all photos by Erin Alexander

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Creole Christmas at Preservation Hall- Christmas Eve December 24 2009

creole xmas rgb
Gonna be in New Orleans for the Holidays? Join us on Christmas Eve for New Orleans style Holiday Music featuring Lars Edegran and The St. Peter Street Allstars with vocalist Big Al Carson. There's 2 concerts, one at 2pm and the other at 4pm. Call (504)522-2841 to reserve tickets for you and your family. Happy Holidays!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #9: St. Louis Blues featuring Freddie Lonzo. And a jog around the stage!

Check out 'The Good One' Freddie Lonzo doing his thing to St. Louis Blues at B.B. King's in NYC. Watch as he takes a little jog during his trombone solo.   Go Freddie!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

The Reviews: TMP and PHJB in Ma Maison

Some nice words from The New Orleans Times-Picayune!

Trey McIntyre jazz ballet a triumph; final show tonight, Nov. 22

Posted by Chris Waddington, Contributing writer, The Times-Picayune November 22, 2008 4:51PM


I could almost hear the clatter of bones as nine skeletons, dressed in Carnival motley, shimmied to the wailing clarinet, dangled loose-limbed arms to the thrum of the banjo, and jerked their heads, as if nagged by the long, steady roll of the snare. When a downbeat came,
they let loose with fluttering steps and whiplash turns from the world of ballet, moving with the singular purpose of schooling fish chased by a shark.

For me, and the thousand cheering dance fans who packed Tulane University's Dixon Hall on Friday, Nov. 21, it seemed that Mardi Gras had come early -- not the Bourbon Street party for hooting tourists and girls-gone-wild, but the dark revel that only makes sense when you've gone through a hurricane season, buried a few friends and danced in a second line parade with tears in your eyes.

Is it clear that I'm also talking about an artistic triumph? I hope so, for that's exactly what was delivered in "Ma Maison," the stunning, 30-minute dance collaboration between choreographer Trey McIntyre, local costume designer Jeanne Button, the improvising musicians of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and nine dancers whose artistry let them forge a powerful blend of street styles and ballet athleticism...

read more...

Friday, November 14, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #7: Gabriel/Maedgen duet backstage

Enjoy this little musical snippet from backstage with Charlie & Clint...

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Goings On: THE TREY McINTYRE PROJECT + PHJB = Ma Maison

Trey McIntyre, one of the world's most sought-after choreographers, is bringing his critically-acclaimed ballet company The Trey McIntyre Project to New Orleans for two nights of performances at Tulane University's Dixon Hall on November 21 and 22.

"One of the hottest choreographers in the dance world" (The Boston Globe), McIntyre has been a force on the international dance scene creating fresh and innovative works for over 20 years. With the dance world hungry for new creative voices, McIntyre's career has sky-rocketed. Rooted in classical ballet, his in-demand dances are hip, contemporary, and set to a brilliant variety of music from Brubeck and The Beatles to Beethoven and Beck. Since the debut of his first work in 1990 for Houston Ballet, he has created over 70 ballets for more than 30 prestigious companies, including American Ballet Theatre, Stuttgart Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, and Aspen Santa Fe Ballet.

As a part of the company's first performances in New Orleans, TMP joins forces with the New Orleans Ballet Association to create a brand new work, Ma Maison, featuring iconic New Orleans jazz music. After exploring the music scene and clubs of New Orleans, McIntyre selected The Preservation Hall Jazz Band to provide the soundtrack for his new work and collaborated with PHJB to hand-pick the six-song score that will be performed live by the band for the premiere at Dixon Hall. "When I danced with Houston Ballet, I used to jump in my car every single layoff and drive to New Orleans. I had more friends there than I did in Texas. I am so fond of the culture and people. There is truly no place like it," said McIntyre. "It was an easy choice for me to work with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band. These are excellent musicians who understand the canon they work within with great care and understanding."

"It's always exciting to collaborate with artists on projects that celebrate New Orleans. Working with Trey is extraordinary because he brings his own distinct creative vision to the table. I am always amazed at the way people view New Orleans from the outside looking in," said Ben Jaffe, Creative Director for The Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Ma Maison also features costumes by award-winning New Orleans-based designer Jeanne Button and masks by renowned Broadway production designer Michael Curry. The final staging for Ma Maison will be done in New Orleans during TMP's week-long residency, and afterward will be included as part of TMP's world tour.

"Part of NOBA's mission is to perpetuate and strengthen the performing arts in New Orleans, and one way of doing this is by facilitating the creation of new works. With an impressive track record for working with a variety of musical styles, Trey McIntyre was an obvious choice for choreographer. Our only stipulation was that Trey use New Orleans jazz music. NOBA is thrilled to be a part of this unique collaboration and TMP's inaugural tour," said NOBA Executive Director, Jenny Hamilton.

Tickets for the performance range from $30 to $80. Students and seniors (65 and older) receive a $7 discount off the regular ticket prices. Group discounts also are available. For tickets or information, call the New Orleans Ballet Association Box Office at (504) 522-0996. Tickets may be purchased online through www.nobadance.com, or via Ticketmaster at (504) 522-5555 or www.ticketmaster.com.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Festival Fun: 2008 NEW ORLEANS VOODOO EXPERIENCE


What a weekend, ladies and gentlemen! If you were in New Orleans on October 24-26 this year, surely you know how much fun we had at the Preservation Hall stage. In our third year of producing an amazing local showcase at this multi-stage, genre-spanning music festival, we were graced by amazing performances from some of the greatest bastions of New Orleans music and culture, young and old. With a little help from some like-minded friends from beyond the city limits, festival-goers were treated to a true family affair. Good music, good friends, and good times. Here's what a few of our fans had to say...

From The Louisiana Weekly:
The Voodoo Experience Continues to Cast its Lyrical Spell
By: Geraldine Wyckoff, Contributing Writer
Posted: Monday, November 3, 2008, 1:10pm


The Voodoo Music Experience continues to impress with the diversity of its musical offerings as well as the efforts made to improve its layout and venues.

Particularly eye-catching was the wonderfully whimsical Bingo! Parlor’s purple and gold circus tent. The interior of the big top was equally enchanting with luxurious red curtains draped around the stage and a trapeze hanging from above. A bubble machine invited crowds to the area that remained active with groups like the Noisician Coalition; a brightly donned assemblage armed with homemade instruments, the Big Easy Rollergirls and Elvis imitators on little scooters amusingly buzzing around. You almost expected an elephant to suddenly appear from around the bend.

Also new and improved was the Preservation Hall Tent, which since its inception in 2006, had been very small, though always charming, venue that would be jammed with those wanting to hear popular New Orleans artists like Irma Thomas and Deacon John. This year, these two got to strut their stuff on a big stage, under a large tent set in a village-type section of the fest that retained the rustic charm of the old tent and reflected the spirit of the French Quarter club.
With the Preservation Hall Tent located quite near the huge, often extremely loud Voodoo and PlayStation stages, and facing the latter, one would think sound bleed would be a problem. Yet there was no disturbance even during a solo set by guitarist/vocalist, soul man Rockie Charles that opened the tent on Friday.

From Nola.com:
Rockie Charles Rocks Preservation Hall's Tent at Voodoofest
Posted by Keith Marszalek, NOLA.com
October 24, 2008, 5:17pm




From WWLTV.com:
Few Crowds Early On at Voodoo
Posted by Chad Bower
October 24, 2008, 1:24pm


I'd say it was a pretty slow, steady first two hours of Voodoo. It's almost a given that early morning Friday would see few crowds. People are still at work, and Friday is always going to be one of the slower days.

But if you're off, that means you can get to see some prime music. The crowds are pretty much non-existant at the time of this writing, so you can't get to the front of just about any stage.
I've seen two bands start to finish so far: Rockie Charles at the Preservation Hall Tent and the Sons of William at the Voodoo Stage.

Rockie, as usual, was fantastic. He's the perfect opening for the Preservation Hall Tent. It's just him on the stage, rocking, with no accompaniment at all. It's much more intimate than the other shows you'll see on the other stages. A core goal of the tent is to do give off just that feeling: they want you to feel up close and personal, just like at the Preservaiton Hall Tent. Check out the artwork in the tents, too, if you get a chance...

read more...

Check back soon for more stories from The Preservation Hall Stage at Voodoo Fest!

Friday, October 31, 2008

Prospect.1 New Orleans opens This Weekend!



On November 1, 2008, Prospect.1 New Orleans [P.1], the largest biennial of international contemporary art ever organized in the United States, will open to the public in museums, historic buildings, and found sites throughout New Orleans. Prospect.1 New Orleans [P.1] has been conceived in the tradition of the great international biennials, and will showcase new artistic practices as well as an array of programs benefiting the local community. Over the course of its eleven-week run, Prospect.1 New Orleans [P.1] plans to draw international media attention, creative energy, and new economic activity to the city of New Orleans.
Included in this biennial is a painting and jazz funeral tribute to late Preservation Hall banjoist/vocalist Narvin Kimball by Thai artist Navin Rawanchaikul beginning at 2:30pm. The funeral will commence on the steps of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s Southall Mortuary (1225 North Rampart Street), follow a parade route in front of Armstrong Park, and end at Preservation Hall. (Music by present and former members of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, along with other New Orleans musicians).

Ben Jaffe on Prospect 1/Preservation Hall:
"Earlier this year, I was contacted by Don Marshall, Director of The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation. Sitting in his office were Tyler Russell and Navin Rawanchaikul. Tyler and Navin were in New Orleans doing research for a project they were creating for Prospect 1. (http://www.prospectneworleans.org) Navin is a multi media artist from Thailand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navin_Rawanchaikul). Preparing for their trip to New Orleans, Navin R. googled his name and up came: "Did you mean Narvin Kimball New Orleans?" Narvin Kimball was the original banjoist with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narvin_Kimball). I was very close to Mr. Kimball. I remain in constant contact with his wife, Lillian, who is back living in New Orleans in the home the couple built together in the 1950's. Mr. Kimball performed with my dad, Allan Jaffe, for over 15 years. I began performing with Mr. Kimball in 1993 when I joined the Preservation Hall Band in 1993. Watching Mr. Kimball every night belt out "Closer Walk With Thee" or his trademark, "Georgia On My Mind" was inspirational. He always gave 100%. The crowd always responded with a standing ovation.

Flash back to earlier this year: Don Marshall asked if I could meet with Tyler and Navin. Our impromptu meeting, as many are in New Orleans, took place at Preservation Hall. Tyler and Navin had never been to Preservation Hall and knew very little about it's history and Narvin Kimball. We spent the day talking about Narvin and the Hall. Tyler and Navin also met with Dodie and John Simmons, two old friends of the Kimball's and instrumental figures on the New Orleans music scene. After speaking with Naving and Tyler, the Simmon's brought Navin and Tyler to Mr. Kimball's grave. The following day, I took the Tyler and Navin to meet Mrs. Kimball. En route to Mrs. Kimball's house, we stopped and picked up a baked ham, Mrs. Kimball's favorite. Navin and Tyler spoke with Mrs. Kimball for hours. Somewhere along the way, I suggested having a memorial parade in Mr. Kimball's honor. Mr. Kimball passed away shortly after Katrina ravaged our city. We had a small funeral procession for Mr. Kimball, but not the one he deserved. All of this led to the idea of "Narvin's Party". http://www.prospectneworleans.org/hear.html

The memorial parade was held on November 1st, 2008, All Saints Day. We began on Rampart St at the recently acquired funeral home, now a gallery and community center. The funeral home was purchased by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Foundation and is in the process of being transformed into a gallery space and cultural education center. The band, comprised of members of the Preservation Hall Band, began playing "A Closer Walk With Thee" inside the gallery where 6 paintings dedicated to the life of Mr. Kimball, painted by Navin R. hung. We marched through the hallway, out onto the steps where a curious crowd of onlookers stood by. Awaiting us was a horse drawn hearse. Leading the procession was Navin R arm in arm with Mr. Kimball's daughter, Barbara Kimball. The parade snaked through the French Quarter, past the Armstrong Park Gate, down St. Ann, stopping briefly in front of my child hood house on St. Ann. Through Jackson Square in front of the St. Louis Cathedral, ending in front of Preservation Hall where Navin presented a painting that will hang in the carriageway of Preservation Hall.

I have attended many funerals in my life. My father performed at dozens with the Olympia Brass Band. I can't remember the first funeral I ever attended? There have been so many. This memorial had special meaning because it was for someone who symbolizes so much of what it means to be a New Orleans Musician. Thanks to the efforts of everyone at Prospect 1, particularly Dan Cameron and Yiva Rouse, Mr. Kimball received the dignified send off he deserved."

Ben Jaffe, Creative Director
Preservation Hall


For more on Prospect.1 New Orleans click here


To read New York Times article on Prospect.1 click here

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #6:Trumpet Mutes w/ Mark Braud

Check out PHJB bandleader Mark Braud backstage in Minneapolis with the largest collection of trumpet mutes you've ever seen...

Monday, October 13, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #5: Charlie Gabriel Interview-George Lewis

Here's a little backstage interview with Mr. Charlie Gabriel, as he gives a little insight into his musical upbringing. We'll let Charlie tell you in his own words...

Mr. Gabriel's website:
http://www.charliegabriel.com

Monday, September 29, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #4: Interview with Mark Braud: Paul Barbarin

Here's a short backstage interview with 3rd generation New Orleans trumpeter/PHJB band leader Mark Braud talking about the impact of the 1955 Atlantic Records recording "Paul Barbarin and his New Orleans Jazz" and his musical lineage.


And a little walk with Ben and Clint backstage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC:

And how about a group shot?

Next stop...Buies Creek, North Carolina and Knoxville, Tennessee! See you there!

Paul Newman at Preservation Hall.



R.I.P. Paul Newman(1925-2008)

Sunday, September 28, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #3: Backstage in Utica, NY

Here's clarinetist, saxophonist and vocalist Clint Maedgen poppin' in on The Blind Boys of Alabama during soundcheck in Utica, New York. Check out Preservation Hall pianist Rickie Monie on B3!

Saturday, September 27, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #2: (Re)Introducing Mr. Charlie Gabriel

As some of you know, 4th generation New Orleans clarinetist/saxophonist/vocalist Mr. Charlie Gabriel is the latest addition to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band lineup. We couldn't be more excited.
Here's a peek of Mr. Gabriel performing "Tailgate" with PHJB in Schenectady, New York last night.


For more on Charlie Gabriel:
charliegabriel.com


Next stop for PHJB...Utica, New York. See ya there!

Friday, September 26, 2008

ON THE ROAD WITH PHJB #1: Down By The Riverside

Dear Friends of The Hall,

We're starting up a new contribution to our blog titled "On The Road with PHJB". Every couple of days, we'll post behind the scenes updates from the band including live footage, backstage interviews, photos, and more. Our first submission is the band performing the song 'Down By The Riverside' with The Blind Boys of Alabama on their current tour. More to come...

Thursday, September 25, 2008

PHJB back from tour on Oct. 4th


Hey New Orleans! Your very own Preservation Hall Jazz Band will be back in town for one night only on October 4th at Preservation Hall. If you haven't witnessed the latest incarnation of the PHJB, this is one not to miss. Gates open at 8pm.

Down By The Riverside Tour hits NYC

The Down By The Riverside Tour(PHJB with Blind Boys of Alabama just past through New York City at B.B. King's Blues Club. Here's some photos from the performance. photos courtesy of Mr. Dino Perrucci. http://dinoperrucciphotography.com/


Saturday, August 23, 2008

Preservation Hall open nightly once again!


Dear Friends of Preservation Hall,

For the first time since the storm of 2005, Preservation Hall is proud to announce our return to a 7-night a week schedule of nightly New Orleans Jazz Concerts.

Local favorites scheduled to play at Preservation Hall in September include Shannon Powell and The Preservation Hall-Stars, Carl LeBlanc and The Essential New Orleans Jazz Band, Preservation Hall Jazz Masters featuring Gregg Stafford, The Treme Brass Band, and globe-trotting musical representatives of New Orleans, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Come celebrate this renewal and spread the word that Preservation Hall is back in full musical swing. Yeah you right.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Article on Maynard Chatters at nola.com


Here's a great article on trombonist/vocalist/teacher Mr. Maynard Chatters from last Sunday's Gretna Picayune on nola.com. You can catch Maynard playing weekly here at the Hall. Read about him by clicking HERE. The above photo comes courtesy of Shannon Brinkman. www.shannonbrinkman.net

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Down By The Riverside Tour: PHJB & The Blind Boys of Alabama



If you haven't heard yet, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band will be joining musical forces with the Blind Boys of Alabama in support of The Blind Boys' album Down By The Riverside. Go to the Down By The Riverside Myspace Page to find out if they're coming to your town. Read the press release about the tour:
BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA, PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND ANNOUNCE COLLABORATIVE TOUR
LEGENDS OF GOSPEL AND JAZZ HIT THE ROAD AFTER RECORDING TOGETHER ON THE BLIND BOYS’ LATEST CD DOWN IN NEW ORLEANS
“DOWN BY THE RIVERSIDE” KICKS OFF SEPTEMBER 16th

The Blind Boys of Alabama and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band continue to bring attention to the rich musical heritage of New Orleans by announcing their joint “Down By The Riverside” tour, starting Sept. 16, 2008 and running through March of 2009. By joining together, these two historic institutions reaffirm that the Crescent City is still a source of great music as it continues to rebuild and revitalize.

In January, the Blind Boys released Down In New Orleans, their first album ever recorded in the Big Easy. The album has received overwhelming critical acclaim, and features guest performances by the legendary Allen Toussaint, local kingpins the Hot 8 Brass Band, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. In April the Blind Boys and Preservation Hall performed together, along with special guests Dr. John, Susan Tedeschi, and others, at a sold-out concert at Tipitinas club in New Orleans. The show was recorded for a DVD which is due out in early 2009.

Released on January 29th, Down In New Orleans represents the Blind Boys desire to bring hope to the still storm-ravaged city. The Washington Post raved that the CD was “Inspired and relevant, (and) borders on the miraculous.” USA Today praised the “rousing musical tribute to New Orleans,” while Rolling Stone called it “A super weapon of roots-music uplift” and the Toronto Sun gasped, “inspirational.”

Last spring, Preservation Hall Recordings released Made in New Orleans: The Hurricane Sessions, collection of timeless, previously unreleased recordings by the PHJB, some salvaged from New Orleans' flooded Sea Saint Studios. It also included performance footage of the PHJB, from their first 1961 appearance on the Brinkley News Hour to a 2005 music video for their cover of the Kinks' "Complicated Life," featuring a carnivalesque pre-Katrina French Quarter bicycle parade. This spring, creative director Ben Jaffe unveiled "Preservation Hall Presents," the Hall's latest recording project - a series of recordings by PHJB members that will showcase the many individual talents that make up the collective face of the venerable band.

This year, the Hall mourned the loss of trumpet player John Brunious, Jr., who led the PHJB for more than two decades. Carrying on a formidable family legacy of New Orleans' music his nephew, 34-year-old Mark Braud leads the ensemble. Vocalist and clarinet player Clint Maedgen, who came to Preservation Hall from cabaret-act, The New Orleans Bingo! Show, also continues to bring the tradition forward - in January 2008, he sang the national anthem with the PHJB at the prestigious BCS college football championship at the New Orleans Superdome.

About the Blind Boys:
The Blind Boys of Alabama have thrilled and inspired audiences the world over since they formed in 1939, and are still creating critically acclaimed recordings and reaching new career heights even today. In recent years the group has won FOUR consecutive Grammy Awards, been featured on “60 Minutes,” “Regis & Kelly,” “The Tonight Show” and the “Late Show with David Letterman”, performed on the 2005 Grammy Awards telecast, and appeared in the 2003 movie “The Fighting Temptations” alongside Beyonce and Cuba Gooding Jr. They sang a Phil Collins tune in Disney’s “Brother Bear” animated film, and were also the inspiration for the Steven Bochco TV series “Blind Justice.” The Blind Boys have also been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and awarded the NEA’s Heritage Fellowship for Lifetime Achievement, as well as many other prestigious honors, earning them the true distinction of “living gospel legends.”

About Preservation Hall:
Dedicated to preserving New Orleans Jazz, the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band derives its name from the venerable music venue--The Preservation Hall, which is located in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. Founded in 1961 by Allan &
Sandra Jaffe, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band tours the world serving as emissaries of New Orleans Jazz, the original American art form. They have performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to the New Orleans Jazz Fest, from the Kennedy Center to Boston Symphony Hall. Their audiences are wide and varied and they have numerous notable fans including the King of Thailand. They’ve also performed for all sitting Presidents since John F. Kennedy.

The band received the 2006 National Medal of Arts from the United States. Privately held, Preservation Hall consists of the French Quarter venue, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Preservation Hall Recordings and preservationhall.com. Founded by Benjamin Jaffe and Sarah Borealis after Hurricane Katrina, the New Orleans Musician Hurricane Relief Fund (Renew Our Music) is a non-profit economic development organization that provides direct assistance to musicians, businesses and organizations within the cultural economy of New Orleans.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

New Orleans' ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2008: Preservation Hall's Gospel Revival


Below is the official Press Release for "The Preservation Hall Gospel Revival" at the Essence Music Festival here in New Orleans(this coming weekend). The Sunday, July 6th performance will feature The Preservation Hall Jazz Band with special guest vocalist Big Al Carson, Joe Lastie Jr. and The Lastie Family Gospel, and Leo Jackson with the Melody Clouds Quartet.

"PRESS RELEASE
- JUNE 16, 2008 -

PRESERVATION HALL CELEBRATES THE SPIRIT OF NEW ORLEANS GOSPEL AT ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Sunday night’s Gospel Revival explores the roots of New Orleans Gospel!

(June 16, 2008, New Orleans, LA)-- Preservation Hall is excited to announce its first Gospel Revival at the 2008 Essence Music Festival on Sunday July 6, at 7:30 pm. An exploration of New Orleans illustrious Gospel tradition, Preservation Hall’s Gospel Revival features three distinct musical groups including Joe Lastie Jr. and the Lastie Family Gospel with Reverend Leon Vaughan, Leo Jackson and The Melody Clouds Quartet and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band with special guest vocalist Big Al Carson. Tickets are available by visiting TICKETMASTER.com or by calling 800 488-5252 or by visiting any ticketmaster outlet. For a complete Essence Music Schedule, visit www.essence.com.

The Lastie Family and its 15-person Gospel choir deliver a soul-stirring gospel experience. As one of New Orleans famed musical families, The Lastie’s roots in the church date back several generations to Deacon Frank Lastie. With the devastated 9th ward neighborhood as their home base, the Lastie family has produced numerous noteworthy musicians including legendary vocalist Jessie Hill, drummer Herlin Riley and Preservation Hall Jazz Band drummer, Joe Lastie Jr. After the storm, Joe Lastie Jr. and Ben Jaffe, Creative Director of Preservation Hall, reassembled the Lastie Family including matriarch, Aunt Bettie Ann and Reverend Leon Vaughan, and recorded The Lastie Family Gospel, it’s latest release on Preservation Hall Records.

With soaring vocals and perfect harmonies, Leo Jackson and The Melody Clouds Quartet are a rollicking all-male quartet whose synchronized vocals are driven by a pulsating band. Founded in 1965 by Leo Jackson Sr., the Melody Clouds echo back to the famed Gospel quartets of the past.

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band with famed vocalist Big Al Carson as a special guest will explore the links between Gospel, Blues, and the Jazz tradition of New Orleans. “We are proud to share the sounds of New Orleans Gospel with Gospel lovers from around the country at the Essence Music Festival. This revival allows us to perpetuate the musical traditions of New Orleans”, states Ben Jaffe, Creative Director of Preservation Hall."

NEW PRESERVATION HALL RECORDINGS!


Preservation Hall Recordings is proud to announce the upcoming August 5th official release of three new projects: Preservation Hall Jazz Band:The Hurricane Sessions CD/DVD, Joe Lastie Jr. and The Lastie Family Gospel, and Carl LeBlanc: New Orleans' Seventh Ward Griot. Here's a brief description of each:

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND: THE HURRICANE SESSIONS
This is the CD/DVD that was previously only available in the the Made In New Orleans Box Collection. The CD spans four decades at Preservation Hall including audio tracks by Billie & Dede Pierce, Percy & Willie Humphrey, Sing Miller, Sister Gertrude Morgan and of course the current incarnation of The Preservation Hall Jazz Band with tracks featuring late bandleader/trumpeter Mr. John Brunious. The Hurricane Sessions DVD highlights historical film footage of George Lewis, Kid Howard and company performing Redwing, PHJB featuring Billie & Dede Pierce at the Newport Jazz Festival, and a featured new music video 'Complicated Life' featuring vocalist Clint Maedgen.

JOE LASTIE JR. AND THE LASTIE FAMILY GOSPEL is the kind of recording that could never have been planned, arranged or rehearsed. PHJB Drummer Joe Lastie and his family’s stripped-down gospel sound has an intimacy and a purity of spirit that – along with a roof-shaking organ, courtesy of the Reverend Leon Vaughn – positively feeds the soul. It’s the unmistakable sound of family coming together for joy, praise and song, on the hallowed musical ground of Preservation Hall. And it’s a sound that can only come from the heart.

CARL LEBLANC: NEW ORLEANS SEVENTH WARD GRIOT: Wikipedia defines a griot as "a West African poet, praise singer, and wandering musician, considered a repository of oral tradition. New Orleans' 7th Ward multi-instrumentalist and musical guru Carl LeBlanc explores the depths of his musical upbringing, New Orleans musical neighborhood traditions and beyond.

Read more about these recordings on our official website by clicking HERE

Sorry we've gone for a while.



Hello friends of Preservation Hall/Made In New Orleans Blog,
So it's been a while since we've posted. Well what can we say, it's been an interesting couple of months here at The Hall-new Preservation Hall Recordings, announcement of PHJB summer tours, announcement of European tours, and even more recording. Details on the forementioned to follow...

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Preservation Hall Midnight Preserves schedule announced!


Preservation Hall is proud to present Midnight Preserves, an intimate concert series during the 2008 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The concert series kicks off the first weekend on Thursday, April 24th with a performance by the “Creole Beethoven”, Wardell Quezergue and his New Orleans R&B Revue. The Preservation Hall Jazz Band with very special guests headline the early show on Friday, April 25th followed by a late show with the Dirty Dozen Brass Band for their first time appearing at Preservation Hall harkening back to the early days at the legendary Uptown New Orleans venue--The Glass House. On Saturday, April 26th, George Wein, festival impresario and one of the founders of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Newport Jazz & Folk Festivals, will perform on Piano and Vocals with The Preservation Hall All-Stars featuring Ben Jaffe on bass and tuba for the early show. Critically acclaimed Duo, Benevento-Russo play a rare acoustic set for Saturday night’s late show.

The second week showcases an array of New Orleans music beginning with an early show on Wednesday, April 30 with Greyboy Allstars keyboardist Robert Walter joined by one of the Crescent City’s greatest rhythm sections Johnny Vidacovich on drums and James Singleton on bass with Special Guest Donald Harrison on sax. Thursday, May 1st with the all-star combo of Tab Benoit, Johnny Sansone and Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, followed by a very special late night session of aural beats with DJ, King Britt presenting a multi-media performance. On Friday, May 2nd, Grammy Award and multiple W.C. Handy award-winner, John Hammond performs a solo acoustic performance, followed by a late show with the funky Rebirth Brass Band. Saturday, May 3rd kicks off with a tribute to New Orleans drumming legend Smokey Johnson by The Shannon Powell Group, followed by a cutting edge late show with multi-talented artist, DJ, producer, Kid Koala who will be joined by members of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. The Stanton Moore Trio follows with a late-late show at 2:00 am. On Sunday, May 4th Preservation Hall Recordings will hosts a record release party celebrating the completion of Joe Lastie Jr. and the Lastie Family Gospel new recording as well as Carl Leblanc “7th Ward Griot” recording. Closing out the 2008 Midnight Preserves on Sunday with a late night of carnival revelry is The New Orleans Bingo! Show. Additional shows will be added with music clinics scheduled during the week between festival weekends.
Midnight Preserves tickets go on-sale on Thursday March 7, 2008 at 9:00 am (cst) and can be purchased at http://preservationhall.baselineticketing.com or at Preservation Hall by calling 522-2841. Shows are 18+ and non-smoking. Tickets are general admission with the exception of April 26th concert with George Wein and The Preservation Hall All-stars that will have a limited amount of seated tickets available. Preservation Hall is located at 726 St. Peter Street. For more information, visit www.preservationhall.com.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Second Line Parade for Mr. John


Last Saturday, we celebrated the life of Mr. Brunious with a second line parade. The band was led by Wendell Brunious, and included an all-star New Orleans lineup including
Gregg Stafford, Ernest 'Doc' Watson, Mark Braud, Leroy Jones, Kermit Ruffins, Fred Lonzo, Joe Lastie, Shannon Powell, William Smith, Corey Henry, Taneo Hingle, Rob Espino, Kerry 'Fatman' Hunter, Kenneth Terry, Michael Pierce, Katja Toivola, Ben Jaffe, Uncle Lionel, Burnell Brunious, Robert Harris,Aaron Lambert, Benny Jones, Elliot 'Stackman' Callier, Darryl Adams, and many more. Here are some photos by Erika Goldring.

Monday, February 25, 2008

JOHN BRUNIOUS: HONORING A LEGEND


JOHN BRUNIOUS:
October 12, 1940 – February 12, 2008

HONORING A LEGEND

It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that Preservation Hall announces the passing of one of our cherished band members, trumpeter, Mr. John Brunious. An accomplished musician both on trumpet and piano, John Brunious served as the bandleader for The Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Growing up in a family of gifted musicians, Mr. Brunious was introduced to New Orleans Jazz at a young age, by his father, John “Picky” Brunious and others such as drumming legend Paul Barbarin. He began taking lessons from his father at age ten but mostly taught himself to play by listening to records and emulating what he heard; inspired by Dizzy Gillespie and Maynard Ferguson, he developed a flair for flashy, high-note solos that earned him work at gigs and on record sessions in a variety of styles.

Dedicating his life to music, Mr. Brunious had a flourishing career, spanning decades, multiple continents and some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. His talent took him far and wide, landing him into the halls of royalty and world leaders. Performing for British Royalty, The King of Thailand, U.S. presidents and everyone in between, he loved to share his passion for music.

A pioneering member of the PHJB, John Brunious was with the band for over 20 years as bandleader. He was an inspiration to his fellow band members as well as his fans. As Mr. Brunious carried on the grand tradition and musical culture of his forebears in the Crescent City, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band will celebrate him in continuing this incredible American art form for years to come. Creative Director of Preservation Hall, Ben Jaffe remarks, “John Brunious was living history. One of the last things John told me was, ‘There’s another Louis Armstrong somewhere out there in New Orleans. I’m going to find them and teach them all I got.’ It’s now in our hands to carry on his message and legacy the way he carried the torch for so many years.”

Mr. Brunious passed away in Casselbury, Florida with his family. He is survived by his wife Terri Brunious, a son John, Jr., 2- stepdaughters, a granddaughter, 3-brothers, and 4-sisters.

Please take the time to visit our John Brunious tribute page:

CLICKHERE

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

PHJB performs National Anthem at BCS Championship

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band featuring guest vocalist Clint Maedgen was honored to perform the national anthem at last night's BCS championship football. See video below. Congratulations Tigers!