WEST END BLOG

What does it mean to preserve? In the dictionary, the word preserve has multiple meanings, but all of them refer to maintaining or protecting something from decay. This can refer… Read more

Louis Armstrong may be considered the King of Jazz but, it is not widely known that Louis Armstrong considered another to be the king. Joe “King” Oliver was an instrumental… Read more

This Black History Month I want to highlight places that are preserving black history. Establishments like the Louis Armstrong Archives, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the National… Read more

Since its creation in the early twentieth century, jazz has remained a popular genre of music with both men and women creating music. Its fast pace and upbeat tempo helped… Read more

2020 is here! A New Year and a new decade begins but, the New Year also brings in another cherished celebration, Mardi Gras. Carnival season is upon us, and all… Read more

Within the long history of jazz music, many people have made their mark in one way or another. Some through playing, others through its documentation and study. Among the latter,… Read more

The influence of Louis Armstrong can be felt–or more appropriately, heard–all over the world. Satchmo was an international icon and the real ambassador of New Orleans jazz to hundreds of… Read more

Lillian Hardin Armstrong was a pianist, composer, and entertainer. She traveled around the world and entertained numerous fans with her music. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Armstrong went to Fisk University… Read more

It’s the early 1900s in New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz, the fabled city of music. Nick Duquesne runs a gambling den and club in the Storyville district of New… Read more

Louis Armstrong was an accomplished musician, composer, and singer. During his free time Louis played his trumpet, wrote jokes, and recorded over 700 reels of audio. But there is one… Read more