New non-profit, Keep NOLA Music Alive, inspired by the legacy of his late father, pianist Ellis Marsalis
Nationwide — Understanding both the professional and financial uncertainty facing native New Orleans musician, trombonist, composer, and producer Delfeayo Marsalis is launching a new non-profit designed to help keep the city’s music culture thriving.
“My dad dedicated his life to growing and promoting New Orleans musicians,” said Marsalis the legendary New Orleans pianist Ellis Marsalis who succumbed to COVID-19 on April 1, 2020, at the age of 85. “Today, the global health pandemic presents a threat to New Orleans’ culture bearers like none before. No less than our centuries-old musical heritage is at risk. With all performance venues shut down indefinitely and the musical tourism industry boarded up, our artists are struggling with both professional and financial uncertainty. Keep NOLA Music Alive was organized to fill a huge void.”
Delfeayo kicks off the fundraising effort with a “Double-Nickel Birthday Bash” virtual performance marking his 55th birthday celebration. To catch the rebroadcast of the concert, log on to Facebook.com/DelfeayoMarsalis. The concert features dynamic performances by the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, vocal powerhouse Tonya Boyd-Cannon, and a swinging tribute by students of the Uptown Music Theatre.
Donations for Keep NOLA Music Alive can be made now at www.knoma.org. Donors can indicate how their funds are to be utilized and/or include a personal dedication in honor of a particular person or artist.
“We know the need is there, so now is the time to step up and help,” says Marsalis.
The idea to start the KNOMA initiative arose from a local record store’s tribute to Marsalis’ father.
“Peaches Records in Uptown New Orleans, for decades a supporter of local artists and New Orleans music, posted a sign that read, ‘Thank you, Ellis Marsalis, for Keeping NOLA Music Alive!’ the day after my dad’s passing,” Marsalis said. He developed a plan, assembled a board of directors, and secured lead funding for KNOMA, assuring that 100 percent of all donations go directly to New Orleans musicians and culture bearers.
Artists, who must be native-born or long-term resident performers in New Orleans to receive assistance, can apply for grants through KNOMA’s website.
“We can no longer take for granted the brass bands on corners, the street musicians in Jackson Square, and the players in our clubs who perform with the joy and celebration that millions of visitors equate with the Big Easy,” says Marsalis. “We have to keep our music, the heart of New Orleans, beating for generations to come!”
For more information and to donate, visit www.knoma.org
Join in on the fun at Facebook.com/DelfeayoMarsalis or DMarsalis.com
MISSION
Keep NOLA Music Alive assists in sustaining New Orleans culture by providing emergency aid to native musicians and culture bearers.
PRESS CONTACT:
Ann Braithwaite
Braithwaite & Katz Communications
781-259-9600; Text: 781-367-9760
ann@bkmusicpr.com
C. Brylski or D. Johnson
(504) 897-6110
djohnson@brylskicompany.com
(504) 460-1468