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In the almost four decades since it started, New Orleans' Southern Decadence parade had not yet allowed a marching band to participate until this weekend. The Lesbian & Gay Band Association (LGBA) conference was held in the city over Labor Day weekend during Southern Decadence and the band was by far the highlight of the parade which traveled for miles through and around the famous (and very crowded) French Quarter. The crowd's response to the band was overwhelming.

Members of local LGBT community bands from all over the USA and Australia also joined for a mass symphonic band concert of over 170 musicians themed "Incantations", which (being in New Orleans) featured music of magic and voodoo. Among the pieces were "Sorcerer's Apprentice" by Paul Dukas, "Ghost Train" by Eric Whitacre, and Selections from "Harry Potter" by John Williams. The performance went extremely well and with only three rehearsals. The caliber of musicianship displayed was amazing.

An Honors Jazz Band was also assembled for this conference since we were in New Orleans after all. Guest soloist was 6-time Grammy award winner Gary Burton. An incredible performance was given by this group as well.

Here's a clip of the awesome, yet very tired marching band at the last stop along the parade route.



...and this one is too funny to not include. You musicians will understand why.



More on Southern Decadence:
http://www.nola.com/festivals/index.ssf/2009/09/southern_decadence_fills_frenc.html

More on LGBA:
http://www.gaybands.org

Very cool - Thanks for the info!!