Description: In a city famous for jazz halls and great music, there is a place visitors can go to learn how New Orleans came to be the birthplace of jazz. Welcome to a national park that celebrates a uniquely American culture of music — The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. The park’s purpose is to preserve information and resources related to the beginnings and progressions of jazz in New Orleans. Long ago, New Orleans was the center of the French Louisiana colony, but the culture was very diverse. Along with French influence, Louisiana also enjoys a host of other heritages — Spanish, African, and American Indian, just to name a few. After the Louisiana Purchase, a new wave of European immigrants added to the existing cultural exchange, creating a unique environment for the development of jazz. Today, the foundation and history of jazz are preserved in the French Quarter in a unique national tribute to a distinctive genre of music. The New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park offers music selections and information about the pioneers of jazz including: Freddie Keppard, Scott Joplin, Buddy Bolden, and Louis Armstrong, among others. The park also features exhibits, lectures, films, concerts and walking tours which change from season to season. Swing by and pick up an activities calendar and learn about the thriving live jazz scene around New Orleans. The present Visitors Center is located at 916 North Peters Street between Decatur Street and the Mississippi River. All events are free and open to the public. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information, call (504) 589-4806 or visit: www.nps.gov/jazz. |
