On Feb. 29, the Harborfields High School Jazz Band traveled to New Orleans for an unforgettable experience that put them in close contact with the history and culture of the Crescent City, both broadly and as it specifically relates to music.
During this whirlwind four-day trip, the band had the opportunity to perform 13 numbers in concert at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and take part in the Loyola Jazz Festival. At the latter, the students earned high marks in delivering two adjudication sets and participated in workshops and clinics led by legendary figures such as NOLA drumming icons Herlin Riley and Johnny Vidacovich.
Constantly on the go when not performing, the band made must-see stops at Cafe du Monde, the French Market, and Jackson Square; took a guided historical walking tour in the French Quarter; had an authentic dinner prepared as part of a demonstration at the New Orleans School of Cooking; visited the National WWII Museum; experienced Cajun cuisine at the world-renowned Mulate’s; heard legendary clarinetist Doreen Ketchins and served as the audience for a private concert and Q&A at Preservation Hall; traveled the Mississippi River by steamboat; explored the sounds and sights of famed music venues on Frenchmen Street (with a meal at The Maison); visited the New Orleans Jazz Museum, eyeing some important artifacts and information in the process; and communed with the spirits and the roots of jazz at Congo Square in Armstrong Park.
“These students really went above and beyond,” Harborfields High School Jazz Band Director Dan Bilawsky said. “They represented Harborfields with pride and dignity, performing with distinction and availing themselves of so many opportunities to soak in the rich history and culture that New Orleans has to offer. I’m extremely proud of them and the hard work they put in to make this trip a wonderful reality.”
Date Added: 4/1/2024