FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:

Lauren Noel, The Historic New Orleans Collection
(504) 556-7655 | laurenn@hnoc.org
Sarah Chambless Federer, Gambel Communications
(985) 373-5271 | sarahc@gambelpr.com
533 Royal Street | 400‒410 Chartres Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
(504) 523-4662 | wrc@hnoc.org | www.hnoc.org

WHO: The Historic New Orleans Collection with Gwen Thompkins, Alyn Shipton, the Shannon Powell Traditional Jazz Band and special guests

WHAT: A book release party celebrating the new illustrated edition of "A Life in Jazz" by Danny Barker, the third volume of THNOC's Louisiana Musicians Biography Series

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 ∙ 6-8:30 p.m.
Interviews and commentary: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Performance by the Shannon Powell Traditional Jazz Band: 7:30-8:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Historic New Orleans Collection, 533 Royal St., in the French Quarter

HOW: Admission is free. No reservations necessary. More information: www.hnoc.org or (504) 523-4662

WHY: Join The Historic New Orleans Collection as it celebrates the life and career of one of New Orleans's most beloved figures: jazz legend Danny Barker (1909-1994). On Thursday, Dec. 1, the publisher will release the third volume in its Louisiana Musicians Biography Series, a new illustrated and expanded edition of Barker's autobiography, "A Life in Jazz." To celebrate, journalist Gwen Thompkins, host of public radio's "Music Inside Out" and contributor to the new title, will host a special live version of her show at 533 Royal St. from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
The night will feature interviews and remembrances of Barker interspersed with musical performances showcasing his playing style, and a variety of special guests. Alyn Shipton, editor of the original 1986 publication, will share his experiences working with Barker to create the original volume. Drummer Shannon Powell, banjoist Seva Venet and jazz historian Bruce Boyd Raeburn, curator of Tulane University's Hogan Jazz Archive, will discuss Barker's life and legacy. Afterward, the Shannon Powell Traditional Jazz Band-Powell (drums), Chris Severin (bass), Kyle Roussel (piano) and Wendell Brunious (trumpet), along with special guests-will perform a set highlighting Barker's music and influence.

This new edition of "A Life in Jazz" brings Barker's legacy back into print, adding fresh insight to his significant career. More than 100 images illuminate his life story, while a complete discography, a new introduction by Thompkins, and never-before-published song catalog showcase the breadth of his work. The book, which retails for $39.95, will be available for purchase at the event through THNOC's museum store, The Shop at The Collection.

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About The Historic New Orleans Collection
Founded in 1966, The Historic New Orleans Collection is a museum, research center and publisher dedicated to the study and preservation of the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. For more information, visit www.hnoc.org or call (504) 523-4662.