NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Jazz Museum is proud to present the inaugural Danny Barker Award to the legendary musician and producer Herb Alpert in a ceremony celebrating his unparalleled contributions to the museum's mission and the world of music.
Danny Barker, a pivotal figure in the history of New Orleans jazz, was an instrumentalist, teacher, and mentor who inspired generations of musicians. As a curator of the Jazz Museum's foundational collection and the founder of the Fairview Baptist Church Marching Band, Barker’s influence lives on in the careers of icons like Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Nicholas Payton, and Dr. Michael White.
The Danny Barker Award was established to honor individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in advancing the museum’s mission. Herb Alpert, as the first recipient, embodies this spirit through his exceptional career and commitment to the arts.
“As we conclude our Year of Music in 2024, it’s only fitting we recognize Herb Alpert with this inaugural award for his contributions to music in Louisiana and the world. Alpert’s partnership with the New Orleans Jazz Museum has been transformative. His support has fostered programs in youth mentoring, educational outreach, and opportunities for senior musicians to mentor and perform. This collaboration has positioned the museum as a dynamic cultural hub, making it one of the busiest programmatic museums in the nation,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.
A Grammy Award-winning musician, Alpert rose to fame with Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass and later co-founded A&M Records, launching the careers of renowned artists like The Carpenters and Janet Jackson. Beyond his musical achievements, Alpert is a dedicated philanthropist, channeling millions into arts and music education through the Herb Alpert Foundation.
In recognition of Alpert’s philanthropy, the museum announced that its new Education Center, part of an upcoming capital expansion, will bear his name. This state-of-the-art facility will include upgraded educational spaces, performance venues, and recording technology to support the museum’s mission of preserving and promoting New Orleans’ rich musical heritage.
"We are thrilled to honor Herb Alpert with the first Danny Barker Award," said Greg Lambousy, New Orleans Jazz Museum Director. "Herb’s visionary support has not only enriched the New Orleans Jazz Museum but has also had a profound impact on our broader community. Through Herb’s contributions, we have been able to expand our programs, provide opportunities for artists of all ages, and ensure that New Orleans remains at the forefront of preserving and celebrating jazz culture. This award recognizes not only his incredible career but also his commitment to fostering creativity and preserving the heritage that defines our city."
"Danny Barker was my mentor, and he taught me the importance of not just playing the music but preserving and sharing our culture with the next generation,” said Detroit Brooks, renowned musician and founder of the Danny Barker Guitar & Banjo Festival. “Herb Alpert embodies that same spirit of mentorship and generosity. His support for the New Orleans Jazz Museum has helped create opportunities for musicians like me to carry forward the legacy of Danny Barker and the rich traditions of New Orleans jazz."
"The New Orleans Jazz Museum stands as a testament to the rich musical heritage that has shaped Louisiana’s identity and culture,” said Lt. Governor Nungesser. “It’s an honor to celebrate the achievements of the museum, and I commend Herb Alpert for his dedication to preserving the legacy of jazz while supporting the next generation of musicians. This museum is a vital part of our state’s cultural fabric, and with continued partnerships like this, we ensure that the music of New Orleans will echo for generations to come."
The Danny Barker Award will be announced during the Jazz Museum’s annual Improvisations Gala taking place on December 7, 2024, and presented to Herb Alpert during his concert at Jefferson Parish Performance Center on December 14, 2024. Tickets to both events are available for purchase.