Keeping the music alive at Louis ‘Satchmo’ Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — Since 1995, the Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp has been teaching the next generations of musicians.

“We’re trying to give them a work ethic, is the most important thing. Discipline and for them to understand when they give their all, they have the best chance of receiving the rewards of that work,” said Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp Artistic Director Donald Harrison Jr.

Harrison heads a group of instructors that includes local Masters of the Music.

“There’s probably 300 years’ worth of knowledge here. We’re passing it on to them and let them go and let them do what they need to do with the music business,” said Harrison.

With over 60 kids in attendance, with some coming from out of state to Loyola University’s campus, this year has been a special one with artist-in-residence trombone legend Fred Wesley, who offered practical advice to the young musicians.

“I want them to walk away knowing that they have to practice because nothing is automatic. You say you played the trombone for a little while. I played the trombone all day every day for a little while,” said Wesley.

In addition to practice, Wesly also offered another nugget to the students.

“You have to learn the music business, you know if you put those two together, maybe you’ll be successful,” said Wesley.

Happening Wednesday, July 10, the public can watch Wesley, Davell Crawford and many of the stars of the camp at the annual benefit at the George and Joyce Wein Center at 8 a.m.

They can also attend the student’s concert on Friday, July 12 at Roussell Hall at Loyola University where WGNO’s own LBJ will be the emcee.

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