Preservation Hall

Preservation Hall
New Orleans, LA

Venue Bio

Preservation Hall was established in 1961 to provide a stage and home for the aging and nearly forgotten African-American jazz musicians of New Orleans. It was among the first integrated music venues in New Orleans and the region. Joint performances by black and white musicians, enjoyed by black and white audiences, were illegal during the Hall's early years and founders Allan and Sandra Jaffe were arrested multiple times for flaunting the laws of the time. It swiftly became a hallowed stage for musical luminaries in the 1960’s and continues to host noted musicians today. The Foundation began in 2011 to honor and embody the Hall’s intrinsic ethos and practices. It protects, preserves and perpetuates New Orleans music through engaging and supporting musicians; providing support and services to elder members of our Collective; maintaining a living archival collection; providing educational experiences for learners of all ages; and grantmaking to recognize merit and/or alleviate need.

Project: Kids in the Hall

An expansion of an established educational field trip program that provides students with immersive, hands-on experiences in live music, history, and cultural traditions through visits to the venue.