Blog #1 - New Orleans Takes Off

Why did jazz emerge in New Orleans instead of other American cities early in the 20th century? What were some of the sources of New Orleans jazz as mentioned by Gioia? How would you weight the contribution of Mexican immigrants to New Orleans jazz? After considering the evidence that Gioia presents, what do you believe was the most important factor that explains why jazz emerged in New Orleans? What was distinctive about the jazz New Orleans created?

Due to New Orlean's location at the base of the Mississippi River, it led to the city having an influx of immigrants traveling down the river. It was considered a melting pot, or an accumulation of people from all different backgrounds, and this is what helped it develop such a rich and diverse musical heritage. Each of these different cultural groups had styles and customs that were unique, but when fermented with other cultures created a entirely new juxtaposition that worked. 

While Jazz was thought to have been created in the brothels themselves of the Red Light district (also known as Storyville and The District) in New Orleans, research by Donald Marquis, a leading expert on New Orleans jazz, found that it was more likely to have started in the cabarets and dance halls that were in  the District. (Gioia, Pg 29)

Jazz was built from the roots of classical and blues music, but before this the cultural mix was also a breeding ground for hybrid styles such as cajun, zydeco, and blues. With a mix of new cultures, it was inevitable that certain players would want to stand out. With the help of many Mexican classical teachers, such as Lorenzo Tio Sr, and Lorenzo Tio Jr., Jazz artists became the artists that they are known as today. (Johnson, 226) After the 1884 World Exposition, many members of the Mexican National Band were unable or simply didn't wish to go back. Those that stayed joined regional bands or distributed their skills as teachers for many of the up-and coming artists. While it is debatable as to how much creativity the jazz artists received from their mentors, there can be little to no question about the technical skills that they received. 

After considering many points to the argument, the most important factor appears to be the great diaspora of people that were forced together in New Orleans. Their ability to work together and compete with each other led to a musical hot bed that was unlike anywhere else in the United States, possibly the world. This urge, or even need to make music led to breakthroughs and edgier music that was played throughout the city to all walks of life, be it a wealthy parlor hall or the dirty lobby in "The District". Influential factors such as the Mexican contribution were also vital, as it allowed the jazz players to have a sense of technic and harmony. 


Commented on Ethan Reul's Blog