2006 NEA National Heritage Fellow Treme Brass Band New Orleans, LA New Orleans Brass Band

The Treme neighborhood, on the outskirts of the French Quarter, was the birthplace and home of many generations of New Orleans's finest jazz musicians. Central to that tradition are the parade bands that play for traditional funerals, street parades, and family celebrations. Benny Jones, Sr., a 50-year brass band veteran and son of noted musician Chester Jones, founded the Treme Brass Band over 15 years ago, following his role as a drummer with the Olympia Brass Band and a leader of the Dirty Dozen and Chosen Few Brass Bands.

Although they are known internationally through their recordings and tours, the Treme Brass Band is still firmly rooted in the New Orleans street band tradition. They have performed at the National Folk Festival and for the American Roots 4th of July Celebration on the National Mall. Many veterans of Treme have gone on to found other bands, including the Rebirth, New Birth, and Little Rascal Bands.

 
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