The Rhythm of the Big Easy

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and the place some of the world's most popular musicians — from Louis Armstrong to Lenny Kravitz — have called home. A melting pot of musical inspirations and innovations, New Orleans has embraced music as a part of its history. Music is an important facet of the city's identity and one of the most colorful threads in its cultural tapestry. From street performers to intimate clubs, jazz funerals to festivals, and symphonies to headlining rock concerts, music continues to permeate — and enrich — everyday life in New Orleans.

See also: The famous musicians of New Orleans.

Walk the streets of New Orleans today, and you'll still hear it: the hum, the beat, the rhythm. It's everywhere. It pours out of nightclubs and concert halls, rises from churches and theatres, fills the streets, echoes across festival grounds and permeates our neighborhoods. Jazzy and jubilant, soulful and spiritual, rocking and rolling — New Orleans music tells the story of the city and its people to anyone who will hear it. Come and listen.

History of Music in the Big Easy

In the 18^th century, the French and Creoles lived for musicales — balls that featured  string orchestras — and picnics set to Old World brass bands. Considered the new Paris, La Nouvelle Orléans was the first city in America to stage opera. In the 19^th century, proceeds from public balls helped finance the first full-time opera company. Whatever has changed over the last three centuries, the musical heritage remains.

Classic Appeal

The classics are still going strong in an ensemble of companies and programs like the Delta Festival Ballet, New Orleans Opera and Musical Arts Society. In 1991, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra was the only full-time, player-managed symphony orchestra in the United States. World-class guest performers and conductors support the LPO donating funds, time and services.

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