Photograph by Michael P. Smith ©The Historic New Orleans Collection, New Orleans Jazz Museum, Professor Longhair at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 1977, 2003.003.63.

Me Got Fiyo: Professor Longhair Symposium

Follow the path of Fess from his early life in Bogalusa, Louisiana to his life in New Orleans and lasting influence on rhythm and blues, Carnival, the Mardi Gras Indians, and the entire essence of the Crescent City. Experience his lasting mark on the culture itself with interviews, artifacts and performances of his iconic, timeless anthems of Mardi Gras and New Orleans. The music , the philosophies, the unique styles, the hair – all of it will hit you like the horn riffs of “Big Chief” at this engaging multi-media symposium.

Free and open to the public, space is limited so make sure to arrive early for seating.

Sponsored by French Quarter Festivals, New Orleans Jazz Museum, Friends of the Cabildo and the Louisiana State Museum

Schedule

11:30am - Intro by David Kunian

11:45am - Historical Perspective of Professor Longhair by Jason Berry

1:00pm - Panel of Family and Friends of Fess

2:00pm - Caribbean Influences of Professor Longhair by Dr. Matt Sakakeeney

3:15pm - Panel of Former Bandmates of Professor Longhair (Alfred “Uganda” Roberts, Johnny Vodacovich and Tony Dagradi)

4:15pm - Keynote by Kalamu y Salaam