Tradition Is a Temple: The Modern Masters of New Orleans

Gr 9 Up—Four years of interviews with iconic contemporary musicians from New Orleans are woven with musical performances, vintage photographs, and stunning footage of the city today to demonstrate how history and tradition have shaped the city's identity and how it continues to inspire young people. The documentary opens with Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony singing "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" a cappella. It then smoothly transitions to trombone player Lucien Barbarin holding his two-year-old granddaughter, encouraging her to blow notes on a tuba that is much larger than she is. The film continues from one artist to another as they casually reminisce and perform. Segments are often tied together by spoken word poet Chuck Perkins. The 10 featured artists include percussionist Jason Marsalis, drummer Shannon Powell, bassist Roland Guerin, the Baby Boyz Brass Band (led by Trombone Shorty's cousin, Glenn Hall III), and the traditional New Orleans-style brass band the Tremé Brass Band. Emotional moments include an interview with Tremé bass drum player Uncle Lionel Batiste (1931–2012), a percussion duet by Marsalis and Powell, and a jam session with father and son Morgan and Roland Guerin. Heartfelt and genuine, this is sure to inspire young musicians to explore different types of music.