harry connick

Harry Connick, Jr., Branford Marsalis showcase young musicians

Publication: WWLTV.com
Reporter: Bill Capo
Date: February 4, 2014

NEW ORLEANS — Performing with music legends Harry Connick, Junior and Branford Marsalis was unforgettable for two young musicians.

Two years after opening, the Ellis Marsalis Center in the Habitat For Humanity Musicians Village is providing music education to 200 students, ages 7 to 18.

I think it has exceeded what we thought,” said Harry Connick, Jr. “I mean when Branford and I thought about this, it was just kind of a vague concept.”

The idea that you have 7- and 8-year-old kids playing clarinet and playing violin and playing piano and playing in orchestras,” added Branford Marsalis.

I think it is kind of beyond people’s expectations, at least that’s the way parents communicate to me,” said Ellis Marsalis Center Executive Director Michele Jean-Pierre.

Connick and Branford Marsalis remain committed to New Orleans. They’re also looking at the future, especially where music is concerned.

If they don’t support the center, they basically are not supporting the future generations of musicians that will make New Orleans what it is,” Connick said. Read more »

Check your local listings!

As we approach the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, many are taking a moment to reflect on the trials and tribulations of the people of New Orleans and to speak of the challenges they have faced and the victories hard won, their courage and the commitment to a revitalized and renewed Crescent City.

Harry Connick, Jr., Branford Marsalis and Ellis Marsalis will add their voices as some of America’s finest journalists retell the tale and look forward to the future.   Check your local listings for the following programs’ coverage commemorating the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina (from the Musicians’ Village):

* Larry King Live – airdate 8/27
#AC360 – airdate either 8/26 or 8/27
ABC Radio – airdate this weekend
E! News – airdate this weekend
*#MSNBC’s Tamron Hall – airdate 8/27
The Today Show – live in the a.m. on 8/27
*#NBC Nightly News w/ Brian Williams – airdate this weekend
Good Morning America – TBA

*Branford
#Ellis

We thank you all for your support these past 5 years.  We are so excited about what we have been able to accomplish with your help.

Read more »