Band members have shared the stage with jazz greats and have been inducted into the Iowa Jazz and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame. They have also played at well-known Jazz clubs such as Spotted Cat in New Orleans and the Iridium and Smalls in New York City. Recent musical groups and artists the band has played with include:
Davina & the Vagabonds (Minneapolis)
Bria Skonberg – rising star jazz trumpet player and singer (New York City)
Marla Dixon and The Shotgun Jazz Band (New Orleans)
Dom Flemons – bluegrass/roots/Americana artist, formerly of the Carolina Chocolate Drops
All band members have a common love for the “feel” of both traditional and current New Orleans based music – real, gutsy, raw, heartfelt, and entertaining. The band truly enjoys playing this fun music together and sees their audiences as part of their “family living room experience” for each performance.
The NOLA Jazz Band loves to expose audiences to this traditional jazz music, its history, and its emotion. One of the best compliments we’ve received from a number of audience members is “I don’t find myself liking jazz – however I LOVE whatever it is that you play!” Yes we’ve actually heard that same quote many times and it warms our hearts to know people truly enjoy our playing. Just as traditional jazz was built on collaboration and diversity so is our band. The eight members of the band are represented by five generations ranging from their early 20s to mid-60s – each with their own unique experiences and musical talents.