The Olympia Brass Band, a revered institution within the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans music, carries the torch of the traditional brass band sound that has echoed through the streets of the Crescent City for over a century. Formed in 1958 by trumpeter Harold Dejan, the band is named after the Olympia Theater where they would often play. The group quickly became synonymous with the second-line parades, jazz funerals, and the joyous celebrations that define New Orleans culture.
Their body of work, including albums such as "The Great Olympia Band," "New Orleans Jazz Preservation," and archival releases like "The Olympia Brass Band of New Orleans 1971 and the Young Olympia Brass Band 1965" and "1962 & 1966-1968," captures the essence of traditional brass band music, blending marching band tunes with elements of jazz, blues, and Creole music. The band's lively performances and commitment to authenticity have not only bolstered the cultural heritage of New Orleans but have also attracted a global audience, cementing the Olympia Brass Band's status as ambassadors of the city's rich musical legacy. Through lineup changes and the ebb and flow of popular music trends, the Olympia Brass Band has remained a touchstone for musicians and fans seeking the heart and soul of New Orleans music.
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