Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival

Danny Barker—famed New Orleans jazz banjoist, singer, guitarist, ukulele player, and author—made a lasting impact on the longevity of jazz in New Orleans. His work with the Fairview Baptist Church Brass Band produced generations of new jazz talent, including Wynton & Bradford Marsalis, Shannon Powell, Lucien Barbarin, Dr. Michael White, and others. Throughout Barker's career, he managed to record with the likes of Jelly Roll Morton, Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, Baby Dodds, Cab Calloway, Lucky Millinder, Benny Carter, and many more. 

The Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival was established to preserve the importance of art, education, and culture, which organizers suggest will erode in time if not cherished and celebrated to shape the youth of the next generation. Barker's greatest wish was for the banjo and guitar to carry the musical tradition into the future. In addition to live entertainment, the festival offers workshops and clinics, providing a hands-on approach.

This five-day feast of Danny Barker's greatest wish happens at a handful of venues across New Orleans, and features clinics, a birthday celebration for Barker, many live performances, a parade, panel discussions, film screenings, and more.

Some events are free; others have a cost for admission. Detailed schedule at dannybarkerfestival.com.