Put on your dancing shoes and grab a hot, beignet ’cause we’re headed to the birthplace of jazz — New Orleans! This city is famous for its funky beats and wild rhythms, with jazz music at the heart of it all. Indeed, NOLA has produced some of the biggest names in jazz history. But what, exactly, is this genre?
Rhythms of the bayou
New Orleans jazz is a style characterized by heavy use of improvisation, syncopated rhythms. It uses collective ensemble playing rather than individual soloists. Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and King Oliver all did things the New Orleans way. Certainly, you’ve heard of them.
The heartbeat of the Big Easy
Unlike most fads, this one never went out of fashion. Today, New Orleans jazz is still a popular form of music and is often played at festivals and events all around the world. You might have even heard it near you. But it’s always more interesting to go to the source. Where’s the best spot to experience music in the city?
The French Quarter is the top choice of locals. With iconic clubs like Snug Harbor and Preservation Hall, you’ll be tapping your toes to the beat all night long. But this neighborhood is more than just jazz — it’s a melting pot of cultures and influences, with a rich history and architecture to boot. Stroll down its cobblestone streets and soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this one-of-a-kind culture. From the lively bars on Bourbon Street to the historic Jackson Square, the area is a non-stop party waiting to happen.
To start, you can try those options. But visiting New Orleans doesn’t have to be a bullet point list. Your trip should be a lot like jazz. It’s best when improvised!
