French Quarter Festival Tour
WOW – the word says it all!
Welcoming people, Outstanding music, Wonderful weather…….
Days 1 – 3
Monday 3rd April
As British Airways started a direct flight from London to New Orleans in March 2017, we were lucky to make use of this service and what a difference it made. Everyone arrived in good spirits and after enjoying a welcome reception at our hotel, many people went out for a stroll. Some headed for the usual haunts such as ‘Fritzels’ located 5 minutes from the hotel, whilst others explored further and on to Frenchmen Street and to the ‘Spotted Cat’ where The Jazz Vipers where in full swing.
Tuesday 4th April
After a good night’s rest, everyone was up early and, following breakfast, which was held in our own hospitality room, we headed out for a familiarisation walk – pointing out places of interest and venues worth visiting. We finished by taking the ferry across the Mississippi to Algiers, giving the chance to take in the great views of New Orleans. Some stopped for a drink and bite to eat at ‘The Dry Dock Café with others taking a walk along the levee.
Later in the afternoon it was time for our first exclusive jazz concert, held at the world renown ‘Preservation Hall’; the band that entertained us was made up of Gregg Stafford – trumpet, Freddie Lonzo – trombone, Christian Winther – clarinet, Kerry Brown – drums, Mitchell Player – bass and Lars Edegran – piano and WOW the ambience was electric and the smiles on people’s faces said it all. What a day and this was just the start!
Wednesday 5th April
Another beautiful day. This morning we enjoyed ‘The Cradle of Jazz Tour’ led by jazz historian John McCusker. As usual John was a great hit with our group, showing us historic jazz sites as well as giving us a very informative and interesting commentary. Later in the afternoon it was time for our pool party. The band were made up of Tim Laughlin – clarinet, Clive Wilson – trumpet, John Parker – banjo, Peter Harris – bass, Pete Lay – drums and Martin Roberts-Jones on sousaphone. A thoroughly enjoyable event with the ladies showing off their brollies ‘second lining’ whilst parading around the pool.
