Preservation Hall and Gabriel Hall present free workshop today at Cass Tech

Preservation Hall is an institution of New Orleans Jazz. As a touring band, a brick and mortar venue, and a non-profit arts and education organization, the group celebrates not only the music, but the culture of New Orleans Jazz. Their mission is, “to protect, preserve, and perpetuate Traditional Jazz, strengthening the sense of community, music, family and culture that are an inseparable part of New Orleans and Preservation Hall.”

Charlie Gabriel is a Detroit Jazz legend who is now the senior saxophonist and clarinetist in Preservation Hall and serves as the link between both cities and their jazz histories. Gabriel Hall, formed by his nephew Dameon Gabriel, leader of the Gabriel Brass Band, is the forthcoming music venue and Creole restaurant that will continue to preserve the link between Detroit and New Orleans Jazz. In addition to the presence of Charlie and Dameon Gabriel, Preservation Hall's creative director and band leader, Ben Jaffe, will be there to co-facilitate the presentation.

Today, Preservation Hall and Gabriel Hall are teaming up for a special student workshop at Cass Technical High School from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. The Community Education Workshop: Music Heritage will include the participation of Detroit trumpeter Marcus Belgrave, along with Djallo Djakate and Marion Hayden. These workshops usually last about an hour and a half, with discussions about technique and sound as well as continuing traditions. 

With this free workshop, the group aims to link the connections between Detroit and New Orleans' jazz traditions, with roots in the Caribbean. Cultural aspects will also be discussed, such as the significance of marching bands, second line parades and jazz funerals. With stories and musical demonstrations, this workshop will be more than just a history lesson.

Cass Tech High School is located at 2501 Second Avenue in Detroit.