Straight from the smoke-filled clubs and backwater jook joints of New Orleans, Irvin Mayfield and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra are bringing the gift of jazz to Bloomington. This 16-piece orchestra celebrates the musical heroes of the “Big Easy” playing the timeless tunes of Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Martin, Professor Longhair, and those who laid the groundwork for America’s true great art form.

The NEW ORLEANS JAZZ ORCHESTRA’s program, New Orleans Then and Now, is a lively exploration of jazz — from its raucous New Orleans birth to its present-day popularity throughout the world. Come bear witness to the story of a city through the eyes, ears, and horns of its sons and daughters.