What is the New Orleans Brass Band Tradition?

New Orleans brass bands have been an important influence in the development of Jazz since its beginnings, providing instrumentation, instrumental techniques, and repertoire. In the 19th century, brass bands played for the military, circuses, carnivals, minstrel and medicine shows, political rallies, churches, picnics, dances, athletic contests and holiday gatherings. Numerous African-American brass bands were formed in New Orleans after the Civil War (1861-5). African-American brass bands in New Orleans developed their own distinctive performance styles. Many of these bands were self-schooled and performed in the streets. Habits and attitudes of brass bandsmen carried into Jazz, shaping its music for decades.

Among African-Americans in New Orleans, brass bands have retained a multifunctional significance and are an important component of community-based events and traditional celebrations, including funerals and annual parades hosted by traditional Social Aid and Pleasure club organizations.

Over the last two decades, a resurgence of interest in New Orleans brass bands has helped to spawn a new generation of jazz musicians who are committed to carrying into new dimensions the traditional musical styles. New brass bands now combine traditional brass repertory with Afro-Caribbean percussion and other musical styles of the day: Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Bebop, Gospel, and Pop. The arrangements are free-form and improvised to suit the occasion.