The New Orleans Jazz Museum and Wesley Phillips presents Drumming Circle.  

This program takes place inside our Education Center located outside the first floor.

Please contact Wesley Phillips (504) 250-5244 if you are interested in signing up for classes.

Wesley Phillips

The Ultimate Sideman

Wesley was born and raised in New Orleans, LA and has been playing music for over 50 years. He began playing the bongos and the conga drum with the Desire Poets in 1972. He played for Mama Suma, Free Southern Theater, New Orleans Dance Co., and the Energy Funk Band.

Wesley joined the Southern University in New Orleans' jazz program and studied under Edward "Kidd" Jordan in 1976. Wesley performed with SUNO’s big band, jazz ensemble, and african percussion groups at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival through 1982. Kidd introdued Wesley to Sun Ra at the 1979 Jazz Fest. This began his tour with Sun Ra and his Solar Arkestra from 1979 to 1981, including the 1981 Chicago Jazz Fest on PBS. He later appeared with Sun Ra and his Cosmic Love Adventure Arkestra at music festivals from 1989 to 1991 in New Orleans, Birmingham, AL, and Jackson, MS.

In 1980, Wesley began his 16 years of playing gospel music on an album with Alvin Bridges and the Desire Community Choir. He played on four additional albums, and after many years at the Jazz Fest, the choir was invited to a three week tour of Italy.

In 1987, Wesley began his 10 year study of Afro-Brazilian culture with Curtis Pierre and Casa Samba. He has appeared in parades, festivals, theater, and television shows, presenting the folklore and celebrations of Brazil.

He was introduced to Senegalese culture by Abdoulaye "Papa" Camara in 1990 and have studied with former members of the Senegal National Ballet, including Abdoulaye Diaktaye- djembe; Souleman Diop- kutiro; and Mar Gueye- sabar. Wesley spent 15 years drumming at dance workshops with Papa, including conferences in Washington, DC; Oakland, CA; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA; and Tallahasse, FL. He has performed as a member of the Free Spirit Drummers and Stiltwalkers; the Culu Children's and N'Kafu Traditional African Dance Companies; Sacred Dance Ministry; and Papa's own dance company, Alabatu. Wesley has instructed African drumming with children at summer camps, festivals and workshops in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas.

In 1992, Wesley was recruited to join the FIYIYI Black Masking Indian group after playing the African bass drum on Mardi Gras Day. For the next 30 years, Wesley would play New Orleans' music with African drums with FIYIYI and the Mandingo Warriors. Performances included the Hopi, Navajo, and Yavapi Indian Reservations, the White House, and Paris, France.

In 2001, Wesley introduced his drum making workshop at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. The drums made at the many festivals, schools, and day care center workshop help children develop patience and creativity while using recycled items. First Lady Laura Bush and a group of school kids have played on his drums at a New Orleans' Children Museum workshop.

In 2013, Wesley wrote and co-produced "Spirit of the Drum", a drummer's presentation of New Orleans' street rituals and celebrations. With Artistic Director Binta B. McDaniels as co-producer, Spirit of the Drums was presented at the West African Reseach Center in Dakar, Senegal. In 2017, the production debuted in the U. S. at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival as Kamau and the Spirit of the Drums. This was Wesley’s first festival appearance as a bandleader.

In 2018, Wesley co-authored the book “Fire in the Hole: The Spirit Work Of FIYIYI & The Mandingo Warriors. FIYIYI and the Mandingo Warriors appeared at book signings and panel discusions at events, including the Louisiana Book Festival in Baton Rouge, and the Tennessee Williams Book Festival in New Orleans.

In 2022, Wesley self- published “Mr. Drummer and the Cowrie Shell Hat”, a non-fiction story of a grandfather’s contributions as a cultural bearer. Using the book’s artifacts, costumes, and drums, Wesley developed an interactive storytelling presentation for kindergarden to 5th grade students.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents Roderick Paulin. Join us as we celebrate the artists that make New Orleans a world destination for music. 

This program takes place inside our third-floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first-come, first-serve.

Enjoy jazz music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2 pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Roderick Paulin

If the name Paulin sounds familiar, there’s a reason for that – Roderick Paulin is the son of legendary New Orleans bandleader Ernest “Doc” Paulin who led brass bands on the streets of New Orleans for over 70 years. Roderick’s musical career spans over four decades collaborating with artists such as John Legend, Harry Connick Jr.,  Aaron Neville, Allen Toussaint, Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley, Christian McBride, Trombone ‘Shorty’ Andrews, Wynton Marsalis, The Grateful Dead, PJ Morton, The Brand New Heavies, The Afghan Whigs, Branford Marsalis, and the ReBirth Brass Band. Paulin’s experience as an arranger, producer, and saxophonist/clarinetist continues to serve him well as he’s a highly sought after clinician/master class educator teaching the fundamentals of music and economic empowerment to students of all ages and demographics. For the last 10 years, Paulin has served on the faculty of the Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp of New Orleans which is the longest running, minority-owned and operated music organization that serves public and private school students of New Orleans and surrounding communities. Roderick completed his undergraduate music degree at Southern University New Orleans (SUNO) under the guidance of New Orleans avant-garde saxophonist Edward “Kidd” Jordan, and the previously mentioned pianist and composer Roger Dickerson. 

After some 30 plus years of performing in every musical setting one can think of, Roderick returned to school at 50 years old and completed his Masters Degree at Louisiana State University (LSU - May 2022) during the Pandemic and he’s continuing his academic studies currently as a Doctoral candidate pursuing the PhD in Music Education at LSU as well. Besides his musical affiliations, Paulin serves the local New Orleans music community by educating musicians about mental, financial, social, and physical health through the Musicians Council on Fair Wages(MCFW) which he presides over reinforcing their mission by mentoring artists and providing guidance achieving success in the entertainment industry. Paulin also curates a music radio program called Jazz Across America, in conjunction with San Diego City College on jazz radio station KSDS 88.3FM where he promotes New Orleans music, culture, and business. He co-authored the book Men Cry Out that speaks to the positive effects of improving oneself personally and professionally. Paulin was featured in the Memphis Voyager Magazine's Inspiring Stories as a "Hidden Gem" in the July 2022 issue.  

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and NOCCA Foundation presents Concert Series featuring Maxwell S. Arceneaux on Thursday, June 12th at 2:00 PM CDT inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Maxwell S. Arceneaux (Bio) @maxwell_arceneaux - Instagram handle / tag

Maxwell S. Arceneaux is a classically trained French horn player, composer and arranger with a passion for both orchestral and solo performance. With a foundation in classical music, he has performed with esteemed orchestras, including the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra, the Colour of Music Festival Orchestra, and the NEWorks Orchestra at the Kennedy Center. His orchestral work spans symphonic and opera repertoire, showcasing his depth and versatility as a musician.

In addition to his classical roots, Maxwell is a dynamic soloist, seamlessly blending classical and contemporary styles. As a featured resident artist at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, he presents engaging solo performances, offering audiences a mix of classical, pop, and original compositions. His solo career has taken him to stages such as the Cayman Islands Arts Music Festival and the prestigious MD Chapter of The Links, Inc. Peabody Concert Series, where he premiered both his own compositions and celebrated classical works.

Beyond performance, Maxwell is an accomplished composer and arranger with strong transposition skills, allowing him to adapt music for various ensembles and settings. His artistic voice is further captured in his three studio albums—Believe (2022), Identity (2021), and Discovery (2020)—which showcase his range as both a performer and a composer.

Maxwell holds a Master of Music in Classical Horn Performance from Shenandoah University and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University. His musical journey began at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA 2018 alum), where he developed the foundation for his artistry.

Whether performing in a grand concert hall, composing for a special event, or bringing music to an intimate gathering, Maxwell’s dedication to his craft is evident in every note he plays.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents its weekly Balcony Courtyard concert series on Tuesday at 5pm CDT. Bring your blanket! Seats are not provided for outdoor programs. 

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for their weekly Courtyard Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum’s balcony! Tune in every Tuesday at 5pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and Wesley Phillips presents Drumming Circle.  

This program takes place inside our Education Center located outside the first floor.

Please contact Wesley Phillips (504) 250-5244 if you are interested in signing up for classes.

Wesley Phillips

The Ultimate Sideman

Wesley was born and raised in New Orleans, LA and has been playing music for over 50 years. He began playing the bongos and the conga drum with the Desire Poets in 1972. He played for Mama Suma, Free Southern Theater, New Orleans Dance Co., and the Energy Funk Band.

Wesley joined the Southern University in New Orleans' jazz program and studied under Edward "Kidd" Jordan in 1976. Wesley performed with SUNO’s big band, jazz ensemble, and african percussion groups at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival through 1982. Kidd introdued Wesley to Sun Ra at the 1979 Jazz Fest. This began his tour with Sun Ra and his Solar Arkestra from 1979 to 1981, including the 1981 Chicago Jazz Fest on PBS. He later appeared with Sun Ra and his Cosmic Love Adventure Arkestra at music festivals from 1989 to 1991 in New Orleans, Birmingham, AL, and Jackson, MS.

In 1980, Wesley began his 16 years of playing gospel music on an album with Alvin Bridges and the Desire Community Choir. He played on four additional albums, and after many years at the Jazz Fest, the choir was invited to a three week tour of Italy.

In 1987, Wesley began his 10 year study of Afro-Brazilian culture with Curtis Pierre and Casa Samba. He has appeared in parades, festivals, theater, and television shows, presenting the folklore and celebrations of Brazil.

He was introduced to Senegalese culture by Abdoulaye "Papa" Camara in 1990 and have studied with former members of the Senegal National Ballet, including Abdoulaye Diaktaye- djembe; Souleman Diop- kutiro; and Mar Gueye- sabar. Wesley spent 15 years drumming at dance workshops with Papa, including conferences in Washington, DC; Oakland, CA; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA; and Tallahasse, FL. He has performed as a member of the Free Spirit Drummers and Stiltwalkers; the Culu Children's and N'Kafu Traditional African Dance Companies; Sacred Dance Ministry; and Papa's own dance company, Alabatu. Wesley has instructed African drumming with children at summer camps, festivals and workshops in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas.

In 1992, Wesley was recruited to join the FIYIYI Black Masking Indian group after playing the African bass drum on Mardi Gras Day. For the next 30 years, Wesley would play New Orleans' music with African drums with FIYIYI and the Mandingo Warriors. Performances included the Hopi, Navajo, and Yavapi Indian Reservations, the White House, and Paris, France.

In 2001, Wesley introduced his drum making workshop at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. The drums made at the many festivals, schools, and day care center workshop help children develop patience and creativity while using recycled items. First Lady Laura Bush and a group of school kids have played on his drums at a New Orleans' Children Museum workshop.

In 2013, Wesley wrote and co-produced "Spirit of the Drum", a drummer's presentation of New Orleans' street rituals and celebrations. With Artistic Director Binta B. McDaniels as co-producer, Spirit of the Drums was presented at the West African Reseach Center in Dakar, Senegal. In 2017, the production debuted in the U. S. at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival as Kamau and the Spirit of the Drums. This was Wesley’s first festival appearance as a bandleader.

In 2018, Wesley co-authored the book “Fire in the Hole: The Spirit Work Of FIYIYI & The Mandingo Warriors. FIYIYI and the Mandingo Warriors appeared at book signings and panel discusions at events, including the Louisiana Book Festival in Baton Rouge, and the Tennessee Williams Book Festival in New Orleans.

In 2022, Wesley self- published “Mr. Drummer and the Cowrie Shell Hat”, a non-fiction story of a grandfather’s contributions as a cultural bearer. Using the book’s artifacts, costumes, and drums, Wesley developed an interactive storytelling presentation for kindergarden to 5th grade students.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents Susanne Ortner. Join us as we celebrate the artists that make New Orleans a world destination for music.  

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Susanne Ortner

Great sensitivity and versatility are some of the trademarks of German born clarinetist, saxophonist and composer Susanne Ortner.

 Hailed as “a musician par excellence, capable of moving you deeply” (Augsburger Allgemeine Zeitung), she made her way to New Orleans via Pittsburgh, PA, where she helped Holocaust survivors tell their stories - in words and music. 

 Always searching for the mutual in the different, Susanne has delved deeply into a myriad of different styles and genres - from klezmer, to New Orleans jazz, Manouche, and lately Brazilian choro. Her group Choro No Bayou (formerly known as Macumba) celebrated their debut at Jazzfest in 2024.

Susanne has arranged and composed music for many theatrical productions including “Mazel” by Amy Hartman,“Our Class” by Tadeusz Slobozianek, and "Die Weihnachtsgeschichte" by The Augsburger Puppenkiste . She appears on several CDs and has recorded the following CDs as leader or co-leader: “Last Stop Sehnsucht” (Susanne Ortner Trio, 2020), “Die Musik aus der Weihnachtsgeschichte" (Susanne Ortner quartet), “A Trip To America” and “Hot World Chamber Music” (Ortner-Roberts Duo), and “Khosn Kale Mazl-Tov” (Sing Your Soul). She is the subject of the  book “Living the Dream” – Für die Musik nach Amerika” (Wissner Verlag Augsburg, 2011), written by German Television journalist Helge Fuhst.

 Since her arrival to the city in 2017, Susanne has established herself within the jazz community, and has performed – mostly in duos and trios –with New Orleans greats such as Tom McDermott, James Singleton, and many others.

 In her show with Oscar Rossignoli on piano, and Lex Warshawsky on bass, Susanne showcases a variety of her many facets within her originals, as well as within a kaleidoscope of musics that shaped her - from Brazilian choros and New Orleans tunes to vocals in German from the Weimar Republic era - the undertones always being her delicate vulnerability, velvety sound, and raw authenticity.

 Click here to learn more about Susanne Ortner!

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and NOCCA Foundation presents Concert Series featuring “The Lagniappe Sessions” & NOCCA Jazz Department on Thursday, June 5th at 2:00 PM CDT inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

@wwno_fm & @adonisrosedrums - Instagram handle / tag

The Lagniappe Sessions with Adonis Rose broadcasted on WWNO 89.9 FM.  The Lagniappe Sessions features musicians, writers, visual artists, and community leaders that protect and promote New Orleans culture. Join Adonis Rose, NOCCA 1992 alum, Grammy-Award-winning Performing Artist, Executive Director of the NOCCA Foundation, Artistic Director of The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, and host of the Lagniappe Sessions, for a special live (recorded) interview with various guests on Thursday, April 17th, 2:00 p.m. at the Jazz Museum. 

Current NOCCA Jazz Students Level II - lEVEL IV (Opening Act before the live recording of the Lagniappe Sessions)

@nocca.nola & @noccafoundation - Instagram handle / tag

The Jazz Instrumental Music Department is designed to create not only a proficient Jazz performer, but a well-educated and literate musician. Students are taught scales, chords, and fundamental stylistic elements of various periods of Jazz through specific repertoire of Jazz literature. Students are expected to memorize a minimum of four songs with solo transcriptions each semester and perform these works in a combo setting in class and the weekly student performance class. Students will also perform these requirements at the Jazz juries at the end of each semester. 

This event is free and open to all. 

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and Jazz Foundation of America present a performance by Larry Sieberth on Wednesday, June 4th at 2:00 PM CDT inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Larry Sieberth

Larry Sieberth's local ensembles vary from New Orleans traditional to questing improvisations, from the avant-garde to mainstream jazz and R&B. He has performed at virtually every venue in New Orleans, from small clubs to the annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival where he has been a regularly featured artist and musical director of over 30 years. His collaborations with notable local performers include Johnny Adams, Charles Neville, Allen Toussaint, Irma Thomas, Tony Dagradi, John Vidacovich, Luther Kent, Brian ‘Breeze’ Cayolle, Victor Goines, and Jason Marsalis. He presently performs and tours with Gerald French & the Original Tuxedo Jazzband and vocalist Germaine Bazzle.

Ali Lefevre - is a wonderful singer that l've used for demos for several decades, but we've never really performed together so l've built this show around her - thank you and hope to see you then

Click here to learn more about Larry Sieberth!

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents its weekly Balcony Courtyard concert series on Tuesday at 5pm CDT. Bring your blanket! Seats are not provided for outdoor programs. 

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for their weekly Courtyard Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum’s balcony! Tune in every Tuesday at 5pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents Moody's M.O.B. and Dr. Zach. Join us as we celebrate the artists that make New Orleans a world destination for music.  

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

For Women’s History Month, the Belinda Moody Trio will perform new music honoring the female musicians of NOLA who have performed in the city since the 1920s.
Joining bassist and band leader Belinda Moody for this special all-women performance is Susanne Ortner on clarinet, and Marina Albero on piano.
Belinda says: “We’re excited the Jazz Museum is helping us bring music written and performed by women to our adopted home of New Orleans.”
March 8th is International Women’s Day and this trio is truly international.  Australian-born Belinda Moody has made NOLA her home for the past 15 years. Spanish-born Marina Albero and German-born Susanne Ortner come together for the first time for this special performance.
Before moving to the NOLA, Belinda toured Europe, Asia, and her home country performing with artists such as Teramus Hono, Ernie Watts, Carmen Bradford, and James Moody (no relation!)
Belinda’s career highlights include various recorded works of original material and scores for films including the UN-awarded human rights documentary ‘The Sacred Stones’.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Night of New Orleans Music! 

Celebrate the vibrant sounds of New Orleans with a special concert presented by Lyrica Baroque and the New Orleans Jazz Museum. This unique evening will feature the Amina Scott Quintet, along with a newly commissioned work by Grammy Award-winning composer Alex Brown, performed by Jaren Atherholt, Amina Scott, and Oscar Rossignoli.

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public (suggested donation: $25). Don't miss the chance to experience this unforgettable blend of musical genres in the heart of New Orleans.

Program Highlights:
Duke Ellington's New Orleans Suite
Original works by Amina Scott
New compositions blending classical and jazz influences

We can't wait to see you there!

🎶 Experience the Rhythm of Arco Latino at the New Orleans Jazz Museum! 🎻🎺

Join us on May 27th, 2025, from 2-3pm as Arco Latino takes the stage for a performance that redefines musical boundaries. Founded in 2016 by Bremman Burgos and Raymond Florentino, this powerhouse ensemble blends classical training with the vibrant pulse of Latin rhythms. Expect fresh, genre-bending interpretations of merengue, bachata, salsa, jazz, and more – all reimagined through the soulful voice of strings.

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Don’t miss this chance to catch their bold, tradition-meets-innovation sound at the iconic New Orleans Jazz Museum. 🎶💥

🎟️ Free with museum admission see you there!

#ArcoLatino #LiveMusic #NOLAMusic #JazzMuseum #LatinRhythms #LivePerformance

The Chitlin’ Circuit: Food Stories from the Road

Mark your calendars! On Friday, May 23, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., the New Orleans Jazz Museum, in collaboration with the Dillard University Ray Charles Program in African American Material Culture, proudly invites you to a special panel discussion and live performance exploring the legacy of the Chitlin’ Circuit—a vital network of performance venues that fostered African American artistry and resilience during the era of segregation.

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 5pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

From juke joints to legends, join us for an unforgettable evening of music, culture, and storytelling, featuring a special guest performance by James Andrews—the "Satchmo of the Ghetto" and a true torchbearer of New Orleans' rich musical heritage. Known for his electrifying trumpet playing and magnetic stage presence, Andrews carries forward the spirit of the Chitlin' Circuit, blending traditional jazz, brass band rhythms, and street-funk soul into a sound that embodies the heart of the Crescent City.

Come experience an immersive journey through food, music, and life on the road as we honor the legends who built a movement from the margins—shaping American music and culture as we know it.

Event Highlights:

• Panel Discussion featuring Zella Palmer, Director & Chair, Dillard University Ray Charles Program, Jon Pult, Jazz Historian & Dillard University Food Studies Professor, Kathe Hambrick, Musicologist & Director of the Amistad Research Center moderated by Greg Lambousy, Director of the New Orleans Jazz Museum

• Live Performance by James Andrews, blending traditional jazz with personal narratives and food memories

• Pop-up Tastings inspired by the dishes and diners of the Juke Joints and the Chitlin’ Circuit

Presented in partnership with the Dillard University Ray Charles Program and the Council of Independent Colleges.

Date: Friday, May 23, 2025

Time: 5:00 PM

Location: New Orleans Jazz Museum

400 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents Paul Sanchez! Join us as we celebrate the artists that make New Orleans a world destination for music.  

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Paul Sanchez

Paul Sanchez was born in New Orleans at Sara Mayo Hospital on Jackson Avenue and Thcoupitoulas  across the street from the Mississppi River and his life sounds like the history of Louisiana itself.

His mother's father, George Payne, was an Irish cop in the in the Irish Channel neighborhood of New Orleans which is where Paul was born and raised. Grandpa Payne lost his legs to diabetes and his mother, Sylvia, dropped out of school in the 8th grade to get a job so she could take care of her father, mother and younger siblings until, at the age of 18, she met his father.

Joe "Black" Sanchez. Born in White Castle, Louisiana, his father was Islenos and had come over to America from the Canary Islands like thousands of his countryman. When Paul's grandmother died in the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1917, his grandfather gave his father to an Islenos family he knew in the Delacroix Islands in Louisiana. Paul's father dropped out of school in the third grade to work as an indentured employee on the family's shrimp boat, he slept on the floor of the boat, he ate what he could catch in the Gulf of Mexico from the age of 9 to the age of 16 when he ran away to New Orleans and got a job as a waiter at the Fairmount Hotel.

Paul grew up in the 60's with five brothers and five sisters.He listened to the music they tuned into on WTIX AM which still played singles by local artists like Art Neville's All These Things or Ernie K-Doe's Mother-In -Law. The older siblings would see artists Irma Thomas or Deacon John at sock hops around town, buuujngbtheyr tevurds and those 45s played in the house on First Street. They were a poor family and music was in the air, on the radio, coming out of windows, "it was the only thing we could get free that gave us joy", Paul has said in looking back.

Paul  started playing music in New Orleans at the age of fifteen in bars around the French Quarter.

He lived in New York in the 80's and learned the craft of songwriting as part of the Anti Folk scene in the East Village.

Paul spent the 90’s and early 2000's making 11 albums and touring the U.S.A. and Europe with New Orleans rockers, Cowboy Mouth but after losing his home and possessions in the aftermath of Katrina and the flooding of New Orlean, he left the band he had helped form in 1992 and went home to New Orleans to rebuild his life. He was the only member of the band who lost everything and said at the time, "it wasn't as much fun to be in a tour bus anymore when my friends and family were looking for places to live back home in New Orleans".

“I’m New Orleans born, New Orleans bred and when I die I’ll be New Orleans Dead”

Stew Called New Orleans
Paul Sanchez, John Boutte'

Gather at the New Orleans Jazz Museum to celebrate the Claiborne Avenue History Project.

Rhythm’n’Blues Review feat. The Danny Alexander Blues Band with special guest Patrick Williams, Rechelle Cook, & Emile Hall. There will be light refreshments by C&C Catering and cash bar.

This event is free and open to the public in partnership with the Claiborne Avenue History Project.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and Jazz Foundation of America present a live performance featuring Stephen Foster Band on Wednesday, May 21st at 2:00 PM CDT inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Stephen Foster

Under the direction of Stephen Foster, a seasoned music educator with 50 years of experience, this dynamic ensemble brings together a unique blend of talent. The group features high school students from across New Orleans, alumni of the Foster Family Programs Youth Jazz Orchestra, and veteran musicians with decades of professional experience. Together, they form a vibrant, intergenerational orchestra that celebrates collaboration, mentorship, and the rich musical heritage of the city.

Stephen Foster 3D Orchestra—

Yahel Yisrael- Piano

Sylvester Andrews- Bass

John Lowery- Drums

Tracey Griffin-Trumpet

Herman William -Trumpet

Desmian Barnes -Trumpet

Maverick Gray -Trumpet 

Chris Butcher- Trombone

Dakota Jackson- Trombone

Thomas Grant- Trombone

Jonel Abdin- Trombone

Isaiah Earl- Saxophone

Jason Jackson- Saxophone

Stephen Black- Saxophone

Cedrick Grant- Saxophone 

Kamile West- Saxophone

Alaina McClue- Vocalist

Stephen Foster- Conductor, Saxophone & Vocal

The New Orleans Jazz Museum and NOCCA Foundation presents Concert Series featuring GLADNEY on Tuesday, May 20th at 2:00 PM CDT inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Chris Severin (Bio) @turnupmybass - Instagram handle / tag

Chris Severin is an amazingly talented, versatile, and accomplished master-musician from the Treme area of New Orleans.  He graduated from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) in 1976 during his adolescence and later attended Southern University of New Orleans (SUNO) for music education. The greats Alvin Batiste, Ellis Marsalis, and Walter Payton were all a part of Mr. Severin’s musical training.

A skilled teacher himself, Mr. Severin believes in and promotes consistent practice as the path to a musician’s success and pay off. His daily discourse often details music history, theory, and fundamentals.  In the business for over 30 years, Mr. Severin’s extensive client list includes many of the world’s most gifted singers and musicians including: Diane Reeves, Dr. John, Terrence Blanchard, Allen Toussaint, Bonnie Raitt, Nicholas Payton, Ellis Marsalis, Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Lou Rawls, Alvin Batiste, Herlin Riley, Victor Goines, Irma Thomas and Kent Jordan.  Mr. Severin has played his seven string bass across the globe and is a frequent flyer for the top jazz recording companies such as Blue Note, Rounder, MCA, and Windham Hill Records.  He is a member of Union of New Orleans Musicians, AFM Local 174-496, BMI, the co-owner of Chrisan Music, Lead Engineer at the Box Studios-Studio A, prior member of Windjammer, Vietnam, Allen Toussaint Band, and holds several sponsorships including Schecter Guitars and DR Strings.  Mr. Severin’s universal sound sets him apart. He plays seven-string and acoustic bass for all genres of music including R&B, jazz, and hip-hop. In his capacity as faculty member, Mr. Severin provides music, media arts, and jazz instruction, for the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA).  He also continues to provide private lessons on everything bass and is a teacher during the Sunday Youth Music Workshop at Tipitinas.

Donald Harrison Jr. (Bio) @bigchiefdonaldharrison - Instagram handle / tag

New Orleans born saxophonist Donald Harrison is a musician/composer who master musicians consider a master of every era of jazz, soul, funk, and a composer of orchestral classical music. He is also a genius, according to geniuses like Eddie Palmieri and Mike Clark. In the HBO drama Treme, Emmy winning director David Simon created two characters to portray how Harrison innovated new styles of music. Harrison has appeared as an actor/musician in 9 episodes of Treme, Oscar-winning director Johnathon Demme’s film "Rachel Getting Married," Spike Lee’s “When The Levee’s Broke,” documentary, and Marvel’s “Luke Cage.” This talented artist is the recognized Big Chief of Congo Square in Afro-New Orleans culture and was made a Chief in 2019 by Queen Diambi Kabatusuila in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa.

Harrison honed his experience playing with Roy Haynes, Art Blakey, Eddie Palmieri, Dr. John, Lena Horne, McCoy Tyner, Dr. Eddie Henderson, Miles Davis, Ron Carter, Billy Cobham, Chuck Loeb, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Digable Planets, Guru’s Jazzmatazz, The Headhunters, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and The Notorious BIG. He has performed with over 200 jazz masters and created three influential styles of jazz. At the age of nineteen, Harrison created a modern jazz take on the New Orleans second-line tradition and introduced his composition New York Second-Line to the jazz world in 1979. By the mid-’80s, he created Nouveau Swing, a distinctive sound that blended the swing beat of modern jazz with hip-hop, funk, and soul music. In the ’90s, Harrison recorded hits in the smooth jazz genre. He began exploring music through the lens of quantum physics in 2000. With quantum jazz, Harrison heard how to move music from a two-dimensional state into a four-dimensional state. Harrison's latest recordings feature his Omniverse Music multi-singles concept. 

Donald Harrison Jr. (Bio Continued) @bigchiefdonaldharrison - Instagram handle 

The recordings include "The Magic Touch," which melds the artist's multifaceted life experiences into a unique musical journey of nine different versions of the same song in nine different genres. His 2024 Ropeadope Records release, "The Art of Passion," is three versions of the same song, with one version being a romantic trap instrumental. In the third recording, "Congo Square Suite," he channels his experience of becoming the Big Chief of Congo Square. The first movement is an Afro-New Orleans chant. The second movement is a classical work based on Afro-New Orleans Harrison becoming a Big Chief in Afro-New Orleans culture. The third movement features Harrison and his jazz trio with The Moscow Symphony Orchestra. 

Harrison has mentored artists such as The Notorious Big, Jonathon Batiste, Christian aTunde' Adjuah Scott, Trombone Shorty, and Esperanza Spaulding. 

In 2024, look for Harrison performing music from his Omniverse Music multi-genre singles. He is composing orchestral classical music for upcoming premiers and adding hip-hop/jazz to his multi-genre recordings and performances.

JULIAN GARCIA (Bio)  

Scanning Julian Garcia’s “present work,” it’s clear that he could easily fit into either the contemporary or traditional jazz line-ups. It is quite an accomplishment to have the ability to play in the free style with master Kidd Jordan and be up to performing New Orleans classic jazz with clarinetist Louis Ford. The native Honduran began his musical journey playing in his junior high school band in the Bronx, where he and his family moved when he was 4. He arrived in New Orleans when he was 15 and soon auditioned for the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts. The drummer’s first professional gig was playing in the Caribbean style with Rudy Mills’ band. 

After graduating from NOCCA, he had the opportunity to share a bandstand with pianist and educator Ellis Marsalis performing at LeClub in the Hyatt Regency Hotel and attended Southern University of New Orleans for a year. During this era he supplied the rhythm behind the piano of Harry Connick Jr. at another now-defunct nightspot, Nexus. He remained behind the drums when David Torkanowsky took over the keyboards in a group that included bassist Chris Severin and Victor Goines. 

That gig lasted five years. Noah’s on Esplanade was also a hot spot for modern jazz in the early 1980s, and Garcia got to play behind greats like saxophonist Eddie Harris and trumpeter Donald Byrd as well as our own vocalist, Lady BJ. Garcia moved to New York in 1988, took some classes and made some gigs, primarily with organist Rahn Burton. About a year later, he returned to New Orleans and worked day jobs and sometimes with violinist Michael Ward. There was a period when Garcia pretty much vanished from the New Orleans jazz scene. It wasn’t until the late ’90s that he reemerged. He credits exploring a new way of utilizing his drums, a solo drum approached called the melodic ostimato technique, for inspiring him to play again. He also began researching his ethnic Garinagu heritage, producing a solo recording of the music, “Garifuna Story” and receiving a Louisiana Fellowship Award to perform the work. 

Quotable: “I just try to have fun.”

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music, fun, and international flair at the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final!

Since 1956, Eurovision has been more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the joy of coming together across cultures. With over 163 million viewers worldwide, it’s the largest non-sporting event on the planet, bringing people together through music and performance.

With the support of the General French Consulate in New Orleans, we’re excited to host a live viewing party at the New Orleans Jazz Museum (400 Esplanade Avenue) on Saturday, May 17 at 1:00 PM! 🎶🌍

✨ Admission is free, but seating is limited , so make sure to register HERE!

Come join us to cheer on your favorite acts, discover new talent, and share in a unique global celebration!

In partnership with New Orleans Jazz Museum and Casa de España.

Sneak Peek Performance at the Jazz Museum! 

We’re thrilled to host a special preview of Flamboyants! this Friday, May 16 at 2:30 PM at the New Orleans Jazz Museum education center! 

Created by Compagnie Tilawcis from Réunion Island, Flamboyants! is an exhilarating new show exploring the intersections of Creole identity and culture through music, language, and food — featuring artists from Réunion Island, Puerto Rico, and New Orleans.

Performed in five languages — French, English, Spanish, Louisiana Creole, and Reunionese Creole the show captures the vibrant spirit of Bulbancha.

Join us for this exclusive sneak peek in jazz museum education center before the show premieres internationally in 2025. Come experience the rhythm, flavor, and voice of Creole cultures brought to life! Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

#NewOrleansJazzMuseum #Flamboyants #CreoleCulture #LivePerformance #NOLACulture #JazzMuseumEvents #CompagnieTilawcis #Bulbancha

The New Orleans Jazz Museum presents Noah Young Trio! Join us as we celebrate the artists that make New Orleans a world destination for music.  

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Noah Young

Best known as a founding member of jazz/funk band Naughty Professor, Noah Young is one of the most sought-after bassists in New Orleans. Having moved to the city to study jazz with a "who’s who" of local legends, Young has stayed busy in his 8+ years of activity in the music scene composing, recording, and performing with numerous artists, including: David Shaw, George Porter Jr., Chali 2na, Big Freedia, Marcus King, Ivan Neville, Eric Bloom, Mike Dillon, Sasha Masakowski, Nigel Hall, Russell Batiste, Dee-1, The Stooges Brass Band, Leroy Jones, and many more. No wonder he garnered a nomination for “Best Bassist” in 2017 from OffBeat Magazine, New Orleans’ largest music publication.

Young is also notably part of Slugger, one of New Orleans most exciting new bands, drawing praise from both fellow musicians and the avid listeners who frequent the city’s vibrant live music scene. Combining elements of fusion, funk and gospel music, Slugger represents the confluence of styles that makes New Orleans a unique musical and cultural hub.

Click here to learn more about Noah Young!

Live Music at the New Orleans Jazz Museum!

Join us for an unforgettable performance by Cristina Kaminis on Wednesday, May 14th, from 2-3 PM..

This program takes place inside our third floor Performance Center, listening room. Admission is free and open to the public, seating is limited and offered first come, first serve.

Enjoy Jazz Music from home with the New Orleans Jazz Museum! Join the Jazz Museum online for our daily Live-Stream Concert Series, in which dynamic musicians perform live from the Jazz Museum! Tune in at 2pm on facebook.com/nolajazzmuseum/live to watch for free.

Cristina Kaminis

Cristina Kaminis, a talented Mexican-American singer based in New Orleans via NYC, brings a captivating blend of genres and languages to her music. Expect everything from soulful Mexican ranchera to American jazz standards, French chansons, and vibrant Brazilian rhythms (with most of the band hailing from Brazil).

Cristina’s approach to music is as diverse as her background, embracing the freedom to experiment with multiple styles without being confined to a single genre. It’s about using every color on the musical palette and creating something uniquely her own.

Don’t miss this chance to experience a voice that refuses to be boxed in. See you there!

🎷🎤🎶 #LiveMusic #NewOrleansJazzMuseum #CristinaKaminis #Jazz #LivePerformance #MusicWithoutBorders