Jazz in New Orleans for Xmas-New Years?
 

I really know nothing about jazz, but I do know that I like something more upbeat, a energetic type of jazz (1920s/30s style?)that makes one want to dance (not the loungey background-music kind of jazz). I do enjoy ballads as well, with expressive singers. Being in New Orleans, which I think of (perhaps falsely) as a "birthplace of jazz", and staying in the Garden District (we won't have a car, so we'll need somewhere pretty central: Garden District, French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny, easily cabbable at least), I thought it might be fun to pay tribute to this aspect of the city's history by catching a show. Any specific places, local jazz band/singer suggestions or information sources you may have are appreciated.

Best wishes, DAN

trying one more time...

When you arrive in New Orleans, pick up a copy of Off Beat or Gambit. It will give you a listing of who is playing where.
You can also try www.offbeat.com for more info under listings and then music listings. They list the genre, band, place and time.
Check out places like Snug Harbor, DBA, Spotted Cat and you may even consider Preservation Jazz Hall.

I wish I had better suggestions, but I am not a fan of jazz music.
Anybody else?

Thank you uptowngirl

I'm open to other genres too; Cajun, blues etc... that people might enjoy too. I really know so little about jazz myself.

Anyhow these magazines give me a place to start, thanks for the heads-up!

DAN

Preservation Hall would be my pick. They are awesome and the experience is unforgettable. They've been touring and I'm not sure they are open during Christmas/New Years, but if they are, you definitely need to see them.

You HAVE to go at least once to Preservation Hall http://www.preservationhall.com

They have their nightly schedule online. As time draws nearer to your dates you will be able to see if they are open, I imagine.

Oh I do hope there'll be a show at Preservation Hall while I'm there... looks brilliant! Thanks a mint for the suggestion!

DAN

Get a cab to take you to Frenchmen St. at about 10pm and you'll get all the music (good to great) that you'll ever want. Lots of locals. Spotted Cat is very lively with a lot of gypsy jazz and no cover or minimum but be polite and tip the band.

You might be interested in this, Daniel:

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34907529

Thanks for the suggestions!

Spotted Cat looks great and seems they'll have some shows while I'll be in town. Unfortunately, I only arrive in New Orleans the 28th of December so I'll miss the Tipitina's Christmas gig!

Best wishes, DAN