We will be taking a break from our usual Thursday night practice to learn about the history of the type of music we play.

We will be showing "Jazz Parades", a film by Alan Lomax at the Glad Cafe, and we would like to invite you all down to join us!

Jazz Parades is one of five films made from footage that Alan Lomax shot between 1978 and 1985 for the PBS American Patchwork series. Jazz Parades shows the cathartic Sunday jazz parades of social clubs in New Orleans and an overview of the jazz scene in the convergence of "the Uptown Blacks with the Downtown Creoles." In interviews the participants explain the ritual aspect of "turning loose" the dead, celebrating Mardi Gras, and sublimating violence by dancing in the streets. Their heroes started out in the red light district, where the madames became the first patrons of jazz. Crosscutting between African and jazz parades reveal their common links. The documentary features the Majestic Band, the Preservation Hall Band and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band at the Glass House and participating in a funeral parade.

Tickets will be £5 on the door.