This evening’s kick off party at Muriel’s Restaurant on Jackson Square celebrates the beginning of the 11th annual event that celebrates the life of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. The Opening Reception and Keynote Conversation features two experts in everything Louis.
Richard Havers is a highly acclaimed British music writer who is the co-producer of a lavish box set of the music of New Orleans’ most well known native son. The 10-disc set, out on Verve Records, is the most complete box set of Armstrong’s music that has ever been released. The official release is being held here in New Orleans in conjunction with Satchmo SummerFest.
Ricky Riccardi is an archivist from the Louis Armstrong House and Museum in Queens, NY. He is the author of the latest biography of Armstrong, “What a Wonderful World,” which focuses on the magic of Armstrong’s later years. Riccardi’s book offers a fresh perspective on one of the world’s most famous and beloved artists. He will play clips from the box set and join in a discussion with Havers.
The event is also a fundraiser for the festival. The opening reception begins at 5:30 PM and the dinner starts at 7 PM.
