The King of All Jazz Festivals
by Rita Cook



When people think jazz they usually think New Orleans. So what could be more perfect than the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival? For 30 years New Orleans has consistently thrown the jazz festival of all jazz festivals with the likes of Fats Domino, Bruce Hornsby, Earth, Wind and Fire, Al Jarreau and the Neville Brothers live on stage. Some folks say it's the biggest music festival in the world. Sponsored by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Inc., a Louisiana non-profit corporation, the festival has not only the reputation for being the best festival in the world, but also a very well attended one.

Why all the Commotion?
When George Wein, a member of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation Board of Directors, predicted the great success of the Jazz Festival 29 years ago he still probably didn't understand the future magnitude of the event. But with a New Orleans setting (it doesn't get any better for jazz) and the city's trademark music (a jazz club on every corner), there was no way the New Orleans Jazz Festival couldn't end up being "the real thing" - as he called it. The jazz festival is scheduled during the world-famous Louisiana Heritage Fair held at the Fair Grounds Race Course. There are 12 stages and a smorgasbord of food, just another great tradition reminiscent of New Orleans.

What Else Goes on During the Festival?
In addition to the good food and great music, there are a number of arts and crafts exhibits, video presentations and cooking demonstrations. Oh, and don't miss the gospel tents or the festival parades. And if that's still not enough for you, then the brass bands and marching clubs will be on hand to entertain. In years past there have been booths that go well beyond the music itself. For example, visit the contemporary Crafts Area, Congo Square (for African crafts) and the International Pavilion. A special celebration is in order this year too, as the festival commemorates FrancoFete, the Louisiana Tricentennial celebrating 300 years of French influence in the area.

Where Do I Go
The tour operator of the Jazz Festival is Destination Management. Travelers might be able to pull off some last minute deals by calling 1-800-380-FEST. Northwest Airlines is offering a Jazz Festival discount - call 800-328-1111 and refer to the Worldfile code NY3KC. Of course even if you get there, hotel accommodations might be hard to come by. But, you never know, rooms may become available so keep trying until you get one.

Who's Playing? This Year's Top Performers.... The Envelope Please!

Ray Charles
Willie Nelson
Santana
The Isley Brothers
Branford Marsalis
Widespread Panic
The Neville Brothers
Hootie and the Blowfish

And Who Else Can I Expect?
Many of the other acts you can expect at the jazz festival have their roots firmly planted in the New Orleans jazz scene.

Friday, April 23
Buckwheat Zydeco
Dave Brubeck
Bone Tone Brass Band

Saturday, April 24
Irma Thomas
Charles Neville Jazz Ensemble
Hot Swing Allstars featuring Jay McShann

Sunday, April 25
Fats Domino
Dr. John
Jambalaya Cajun Band

Thursday, April 29
New World Funk Ensemble
Los Lobos
Big Al Carson

Friday, April 30
Marcia Ball
The Magnolia Sisters
Los Hombres

Saturday, May 1
Better than Ezra
Steve Miller Band
The Count Basie Orchestra

Sunday, May 2
Third World
Nancy Wilson
The Famous Rocks of Harmony

So what if the only problem you have at this year's Jazz Festival is not being able to decide whether to see Fats Domino or Dr. John. Just sit back and enjoy it all and take in the surroundings of what New Orleans is all about - music and tradition.

Tickets went on sale back in February, but if you're interested in purchasing them call Ticketmaster at 800-488-5252.