Preservation Hall

Tucked away in the heart of the French Quarter, Preservation Hall is more than just a venue—it’s a sacred space where the past and present of New Orleans jazz collide in a vibrant explosion of sound and spirit. This isn’t a polished concert hall or a glitzy tourist trap; it’s raw, real, and utterly electric. The moment you step through its unassuming doors, you’re transported to another time. Faint echoes of bygone jazz legends seem to linger in the air as modern-day masters breathe fresh life into this timeless art form. There’s no stage, no spotlight—just you, the musicians, and a shared love for music that shakes your soul and sets your heart racing. Ready to uncover the magic of this iconic hall and its unforgettable music? Let’s dive into everything about Preservation Hall that makes it so special! 

 

Entry Ticket

You must buy tickets for the event you intend to attend to enter the Preservation Hall. The ticket prices typically vary depending on the performance, seating options, and availability. General admission tickets usually start around $20–$40, with premium options available for those who want closer seating.

 

Parking

Preservation Hall does not have its own dedicated parking lot. However, there are several nearby parking options in the French Quarter such as the paid parking lots & garages and street parking. 

 

Accessibility

Preservation Hall is accessible to guests with disabilities, offering a ground-level entrance for ease of access. For those requiring mobility assistance, the venue provides seating accommodations, including areas where guests can remain in their mobility devices or transfer to available bench seating. To ensure the best experience, it's recommended that visitors contact the venue ahead of time to arrange for any specific accessibility needs. While there are no on-site restrooms, staff can guide visitors to nearby facilities.

 

History of the Preservation Hall

The story of Preservation Hall begins in the late 1950s, a time when traditional New Orleans jazz was overshadowed by the rising popularity of rock and roll and bebop jazz. Many of the city’s jazz pioneers, who had shaped the genre in the early 20th century, found themselves struggling to find venues to perform. The music that once defined New Orleans seemed at risk of fading into history.

 

Amid this cultural shift, a small art gallery on St. Peter Street became an unlikely sanctuary for traditional jazz. Operated by Larry Borenstein, an art dealer, the gallery occasionally hosted impromptu jam sessions featuring local jazz musicians. These informal gatherings attracted a growing audience of jazz enthusiasts, signaling the need for a dedicated space to celebrate the genre.

 

In 1961, Allan and Sandra Jaffe, a young couple from Pennsylvania, visited New Orleans and were captivated by the city’s vibrant culture and music. Deeply moved by the performances at the gallery, they recognized the significance of preserving traditional jazz and the musicians who played it. The Jaffes decided to stay in New Orleans and take over the space, transforming it into what is now known as Preservation Hall.

 

Under their stewardship, the venue became a haven for aging jazz musicians who had been instrumental in shaping the genre. Artists like George Lewis, Sweet Emma Barrett, and Kid Thomas Valentine found a stage at Preservation Hall, where their music was celebrated and shared with audiences from around the world.

 

In addition to nightly performances at the venue, the Jaffes formed the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, an ensemble of musicians dedicated to keeping traditional jazz alive. The band not only played at the hall but also embarked on national and international tours, introducing the world to the unique sounds of New Orleans jazz. Over the years, the band has become a symbol of Preservation Hall’s mission, showcasing the enduring relevance of traditional jazz. Members of the band often span multiple generations, highlighting the continuity of this rich musical heritage.

 

From the beginning, Preservation Hall became a home for some of the most influential jazz musicians in New Orleans, many of whom had struggled to find places to perform as the city’s jazz scene had declined. Legendary figures like clarinetist George Lewis were regulars in the Hall's intimate, acoustically simple setting. The venue quickly gained a reputation as the heart of New Orleans jazz, offering an authentic, unfiltered experience of the music that had once filled the streets of the city.

 

The Hall’s name reflects its founding mission: to preserve the art of traditional New Orleans jazz. The space itself was modest, with no flashy stages or elaborate decorations. What mattered most was the music, and the small audience was treated to a raw, energetic performance in close proximity to the musicians. The simplicity of the venue helped foster a deeply personal connection between the performers and the audience, making every show a unique, memorable experience.

 

By the 1970s, Preservation Hall had firmly established itself as a landmark for jazz music in New Orleans, drawing crowds from around the world. With the rise of tourism in the French Quarter, the Hall also became a popular stop for visitors eager to experience authentic New Orleans jazz. Despite the growth in popularity, the venue maintained its commitment to preserving the spirit of the music, keeping ticket prices affordable and never compromising the quality of the performances.

 

Today, Preservation Hall is a global symbol of New Orleans’ jazz culture. It continues to host performances by jazz greats and emerging artists, ensuring that the tradition of New Orleans jazz lives on. Though much has changed over the decades, Preservation Hall remains dedicated to its original mission, making it an enduring testament to the power of music to preserve history and culture.

 

Key Highlights of the Hall

 

A Historical Sanctuary for Jazz

Preservation Hall was established in 1961 as a haven for traditional New Orleans jazz, safeguarding it from the evolving commercial trends of the music industry. The venue was born out of a passion for preserving the genre’s authenticity, making it a historic treasure. Its unpretentious setting serves as a reminder of the humble beginnings of jazz, allowing visitors to step into a world where the focus is purely on the music.

 

Location in the Heart of the French Quarter

Situated on St. Peter Street, Preservation Hall is conveniently located in the heart of the French Quarter. Its proximity to landmarks such as Jackson Square and Bourbon Street makes it an accessible stop on any New Orleans itinerary. Despite its central location, the hall exudes an intimate charm that contrasts with the bustling streets outside, offering a serene escape into the soul of the city.

 

Authentic Atmosphere

The venue is renowned for its minimalist and authentic setting. The weathered wooden walls, vintage signage, and modest seating arrangement evoke a sense of nostalgia. With no microphones or amplifiers, the performances are entirely acoustic, offering an unfiltered connection to the music that resonates deeply with audiences.

 

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band

At the heart of Preservation Hall’s legacy is its world-famous jazz band. Composed of seasoned musicians, many of whom are descendants of New Orleans jazz pioneers, the band embodies the spirit of the city. Their performances are a masterclass in musical artistry, featuring improvisation and storytelling that transport listeners through the history of jazz.

 

Intimate and Immersive Performances

One of the hall’s most unique features is its intimate size, accommodating only about 100 people. This creates a close-knit environment where the audience becomes an integral part of the experience. The lack of barriers between performers and listeners fosters a sense of unity, making each show a personal and memorable event.

 

Rich Musical Heritage

Preservation Hall is not just a venue but a repository of musical heritage. The hall honors the African American roots of jazz, celebrating the cultural and historical influences that shaped the genre. By doing so, it keeps alive the stories and struggles of the musicians who contributed to the development of this iconic art form.

 

Educational Programs and Outreach

Beyond its nightly performances, Preservation Hall is deeply committed to education. The Preservation Hall Foundation supports music education programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives that inspire young musicians and preserve the legacy of jazz. These efforts ensure that the art form continues to thrive and influence future generations.

 

Cultural Ambassador to the World

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band has toured extensively, spreading the magic of New Orleans jazz across the globe. Their performances at major festivals and collaborations with artists from various genres have introduced countless people to the unique sound of traditional jazz. This role as a cultural ambassador underscores the hall’s importance beyond New Orleans.

 

Unique Experience Without Modern Distractions

Preservation Hall is a rare escape from the distractions of modern life. There are no flashy lights or digital screens—just the raw, unadulterated power of music. This deliberate simplicity enhances the authenticity of the experience, encouraging audiences to be fully present and absorb the magic of the moment.

 

Preservation Hall Shop

The Preservation Hall Shop offers visitors a chance to take home a piece of the venue’s magic. Located just steps from the iconic hall, the shop features a curated selection of merchandise that celebrates the rich history and culture of New Orleans jazz. From vintage-inspired posters and apparel to vinyl records and unique collectibles, the shop reflects the timeless charm of Preservation Hall. 

 

Plan Your Visit Today! 

Ready to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of New Orleans? Preservation Hall offers an unforgettable experience, where the rhythms of traditional jazz come alive in an intimate, historic setting. Whether you're a long-time jazz lover or a first-time visitor, a night at the Hall promises a rare connection to the music that shaped the city. Don't miss your chance to be part of this iconic legacy—plan your visit today and discover the magic that has kept the spirit of jazz alive for over six decades.