NOLA Public Schools and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Collaborate for Unforgettable Concert Experience Celebrating Mardi Gras Indians

(New Orleans – January 24, 2024) —NOLA Public Schools (NOLA-PS) is proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) for a series of extraordinary concerts that will captivate the hearts and imagination of more than 3,000 students in grades 2nd-5th. This unique initiative, born out of a partnership with key stakeholders including the LPO, LPO Board Member Dr. Stephen Hales, Orleans Parish School Board Member Olin Parker, KIPP New Orleans, Algiers Charter, InspireNOLA Charter Schools, and NOLA Public Schools, promises to provide an unforgettable cultural experience for elementary school students across New Orleans.

The first annual Young People's Concerts, created in partnership with Carnegie Hall's Link Up program, will take place in three award-winning and newly renovated historic auditoriums. These concerts aim to engage students by encouraging them to play and sing-along with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, creating an interactive and educational experience.

CONCERT DETAILS

Friday, January 26:

• Time: 10:00am
• Location: Eleanor McMain HS Auditorium
• Address: 5712 S Claiborne Ave (auditorium entrance on Nashville Ave)
• Attendees: Andrew Wilson KIPP Morial; KIPP Central City Primary, KIPP Central City Academy

Saturday, January 27:

• Time: 11:00am
• Location: Eleanor McMain HS Auditorium
• Address: 5712 S Claiborne Ave (auditorium entrance on Nashville Ave)
• Attendees: This concert is open to the public.

Thursday, February 1:

• Time: 10:00am
• Location: Rose Mary Loving (formerly Martin Behrman) Auditorium
• Address: 715 Opelousas Ave
• Attendees: Martin Behrman, Alice Harte, and Eisenhower schools

Friday, February 2:

• Time: 10:00am
• Location: Frederick Douglass HS Auditorium
• Address: 3820 St Claude Ave
• Attendees: KIPP Believe, KIPP East, KIPP Leadership, and Pierre Capdau

The highlight of the program will be the world premiere of a composition by Maxim Samarov, featuring the renowned Big Chief Juan Pardo. This unique piece celebrates the rich, distinct, and remarkable culture of Mardi Gras Indians found in New Orleans, bridging the worlds of classical music and traditional local artistry.

An exciting lineup of talent includes local actors Whitney Mixon and Pat Smith, who will lead the students along with Guest Conductor David Torns for these engaging performances.

"We are excited about this unique collaboration, bringing together the talents of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, educational leaders, and local cultural icons. This initiative is a celebration of the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines New Orleans," said Anwar Nasir, Executive Director of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

"I am thrilled that our students have this opportunity," said OPSB Board Member and lifelong violinist Olin Parker, who helped organize the concerts as OPSB President. "Music is the foundation of our city and has played an enormous role in my own life. I am very grateful to the LPO for sharing their gifts and filling these incredible art deco auditoriums with beautiful music."

"I am overjoyed to be able to witness the fusion of classical music and our city's rich cultural heritage through this remarkable collaboration," said Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams. "I believe in the power of music to inspire and educate, and these Young People's Concerts exemplify the commitment to providing our scholars with a truly immersive and culturally diverse educational experience. This initiative is a testament to the transformative power of music and the arts in shaping the lives of our students."

To attend or cover these culturally significant events, please RSVP by clicking here.

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About NOLA Public Schools: NOLA Public Schools is the public school district for Orleans Parish. It includes the district's administration and elected school board, known as the Orleans Parish School Board. NOLA Public Schools currently oversees 67 public schools and is led by Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams, the first woman in the District's 181 years to serve as its permanent superintendent.

For more information, visit www.nolapublicschools.com. For updates, follow NOLA Public Schools on Facebook @NOLAPublicSchools, Instagram @nolaps and Twitter @NOLAPSchools.