News Summary
Every Monday night, NOLA Brewing hosts a vibrant bluegrass music jam, attracting musicians and fans from the community. This event, which has gained popularity since relocating, started nearly 20 years ago and fosters an inclusive atmosphere for musicians of all skill levels. With occasional lessons and an encouraging environment, participants like Julie Pfeffer and Eric Schmidt find personal growth through music, making it a cherished weekly tradition that captures the spirit of bluegrass in New Orleans.
New Orleans—Every Monday night, the sound of bluegrass music resonates through the back room of NOLA Brewing in the Irish Channel neighborhood. This weekly bluegrass jam has become increasingly popular, attracting musicians and music lovers alike as they gather to play traditional instruments, including fiddles, guitars, and banjos, while customers enjoy pizza and beer.
The jam has been hosted at NOLA Brewing for a year after relocating from a previous venue. Brewery owner Doug Walner has observed a significant rise in attendance and enthusiasm for the event, indicating that Monday nights have transformed into a sought-after time for live music in the community.
The tradition of bluegrass music at NOLA Brewing was initiated nearly 20 years ago by musician Jeff Coats, who found his passion for the genre following his move to New Orleans from Virginia after Hurricane Katrina. Coats had previously performed in funk and rock bands but discovered his true musical calling in bluegrass, leading to the establishment of this vibrant gathering.
The jam session is inclusive, welcoming participants of all skill levels and fostering a comfortable atmosphere for newcomers. Musicians can join at their own pace, which has helped many, like newer participant Eric Schmidt, overcome initial challenges in their musical journey. The supportive environment encourages individuals to grow and develop their skills.
Among the variety of participants, singer Julie Pfeffer stands out. She began her journey in music at age 50 and has since gained confidence and competence in her playing abilities. Her story reflects the positive impact of the bluegrass jam on personal musical development.
Fiddler Mathilde Rosi-Marshall appreciates the jam for its friendly environment and the spontaneity that arises during the sessions. Participants can create music together in an informal and joyful setting, enhancing their experience and connection to the bluegrass tradition. Longtime participant Tucker Baker emphasizes that the jam is more than just a musical gathering; it embodies a delightful reunion of friends enjoying each other’s company.
To further support the community’s interest in bluegrass, the group also offers music lessons twice a month, contributing to the growing number of participants. This initiative underlines the commitment to fostering musical talent and expanding the reach of bluegrass in the area.
Jeff Coats acknowledges that the expanding circle of musicians participating in the jam is a positive sign of the community’s growing interest in bluegrass. The event has successfully carved out a niche within the local cultural landscape, culminating in its transformation into a cherished tradition at NOLA Brewing.
The bluegrass jam represents a unique blend of local culture and music, providing a vibrant and engaging experience for both musicians and attendees. As the event continues to flourish, it encapsulates the spirit of community interaction and the enduring appeal of bluegrass music in New Orleans.
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Additional Resources
- WAFB: Heart of Louisiana – New Orleans Bluegrass
- Wikipedia: Bluegrass Music
- Fox 8 Live: Heart of Louisiana – NOLA Bluegrass
- Google Search: Bluegrass Music
- OffBeat: New Orleans Bayou Bluegrass Festival
- Google Scholar: Bluegrass Music New Orleans
- Live For Live Music: Billy Strings Theme for 2024 New Year’s in New Orleans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bluegrass
- NOLA.com: Bluegrass and Music Festivals in New Orleans
- Google News: Bluegrass in New Orleans
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
