The history of jazz education in New Orleans: an investigation of the unsung heroes of jazz education

Abstract

This study contributes to the literature on New Orleans jazz by providing a chronological documentation of the contributions of teachers and mentors who provided jazz education outside of public or private schools. This study documents the pedagogical styles and techniques used by teachers and mentors who transferred the jazz style and tradition to young students in New Orleans. The jazz education of students in New Orleans has been a comprehensive effort consisting of schoolteachers, private tutors, and community groups teaching the jazz style and tradition to young musicians. Jazz educators have risen above the obstacles offunding and slow acceptance ofjazz by the public schools to maintain a rich musical heritage in the city. The efforts of these teachers and mentors, have contributed to New Orleans maintaining an active and viable jazz community.