From their debut in The Basement of The Des Moines Social Club in March 2015, the NOLA Jazz Band has been in demand across the greater Midwest. They have also played numerous festivals across Iowa and the Midwest, and are highly sought after for larger private events in the Des Moines area. The band also continues to build their reputation regionally and across the U.S.
Band members have shared the stage with jazz greats and have been inducted into the Iowa Jazz and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame. They have also played at well-known Jazz clubs such as Spotted Cat in New Orleans and the Iridium and Smalls in New York City. Recent musical groups and artists the band has played with include:
Davina & the Vagabonds (Minneapolis)
Bria Skonberg – rising star jazz trumpet player and singer (New York City)
Marla Dixon and The Shotgun Jazz Band (New Orleans)
Dom Flemons – bluegrass/roots/Americana artist, formerly of the Carolina Chocolate Drops
All band members have a common love for the “feel” of both traditional and current New Orleans based music – real, gutsy, raw, heartfelt, and entertaining. The band truly enjoys playing this fun music together and sees their audiences as part of their “family living room experience” for each performance.
The NOLA Jazz Band loves to expose audiences to this traditional jazz music, its history, and emotion. One of the best compliments we’ve received from a number of audience members is “I don’t find myself liking jazz – however I LOVE whatever it is that you play!” Yes we’ve actually heard that same quote many times and it warms our hearts to know people truly enjoy our playing. Just as traditional jazz was built on collaboration and diversity so is our band. The eight members of the band are represented by five generations ranging from their early 20s to mid-60s – each with their own unique experiences and musical talents.
The Band released their first album in March, 2016 – NOLA Jazz Band Vol. 1 “Genesis – Live from the ARK”. CD’s are available at shows, online at iTunes and CD Baby as well as streaming on Spotify. Their second CD “NOLA Jazz Band – Fat Tuesday LIVE” will be coming out in fall 2018.
NOLA Band members:
Jeff Kane – Band Leader. Clarinet/Soprano Sax/Vocals
Scott Davis – Cornet/Vocals
Myron Peterson – Trombone/Vocals
Abbie Sawyer – Vocals
Chris Walsh – Bass
Jamie Poulson – Piano
John Spike – Drums
Josh Gorman – Guitar
Other NOLA Jazz Band "Extended Family Members":
Trombone – Anthony Williams, Paul Bridson, John Benoit
Vocals – Lauren Vilmain
Bass – Dave Altemeier
Piano – Jason Danielson, Bruce Martin, Peter Roberts, Ben Hagan
Drums – Bob Brown