There is no venue in New Orleans — perhaps in all of America — as central to the preservation of jazz as Preservation Hall. Located in a historic French Quarter building on St. Peter Street, this storied hall has been the living repository of traditional New Orleans jazz since it opened its doors in 1961.
Founded by Sandra and Allan Jaffe, the hall was established with a singular mission: to preserve and perpetuate the traditional jazz art form that had been born on the streets of New Orleans. At a time when many of the original jazz masters were aging and their music was being eclipsed by newer styles, the Jaffes created a space where these musicians could perform with dignity and earn a living.
The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, the hall's resident ensemble, has toured the world as ambassadors of New Orleans music. Under the artistic direction of Ben Jaffe — Allan and Sandra's son, who grew up at the hall — the band has maintained its commitment to tradition while evolving organically, collaborating with artists ranging from the Grateful Dead to Foo Fighters and Arcade Fire.
Preservation Hall is also a charitable foundation that supports music education throughout New Orleans. Its commitment to the community extends far beyond the 100-person room on St. Peter Street, funding programs that ensure the next generation of New Orleans musicians has the tools and training to carry the tradition forward.
