Rhythm in Life - Traditions

In New Orleans your heritage becomes part of your soul. I am not talking about social status or money... down here it's all about - Tradition.

I stopped by a concert to hear some great jazz music by Ellis Marsalis, he is the father of Wynton and Branford and many consider them the “first family of jazz” in New Orleans other family musicians include Delfeayo and Jason.

Famed jazz drummer Paul Ferrara (my grandfather and drum teacher) played with Mr.Ellis Marsalis back in the 1960’s while in Al Hirts band the were actually roommates when the band toured. Paul Ferrara also played in Louie Prima’s band he is the skinny kid on the drum set in movie(below)...my grandpa could play with the best of them and he did.

With my grandfather Paul Ferrara

Paul Ferrara on drums (19 years old) playing with Louie Prima

 Al Hirt-BeginTheBegin