What does it really take to lead a stage band in New Orleans?

Join us for a powerful conversation with some of the city’s working bandleaders and musicians as we go beyond the stage lights and into the real life behind the music.

From bookings and band management to keeping traditions alive while building sustainable careers, this discussion will give an honest look into the passion, pressure, creativity, and culture that fuel New Orleans music every day.

We’ll talk about:

• What audiences see vs. what really happens behind the scenes
• The business, bookings & the grind
• Keeping music authentic and relevant
• Challenges, wins & lessons learned
• Advice for the next generation
• Open Q&A and community conversation

Featuring: 
Margie Perez, Derrick Freeman, Hannah Kreiger-Benson, and Colin Davis

Moderated by: Danovan "Bettis" Calhoun-Bettis

Presented by MaCCNO in partnership with the New Orleans Public Library.

Real bands. Real stories. Real New Orleans.

The event will be held at the Nora Navra Library (1902 St Bernard Ave) and is free and open to the public.