Connie Jones facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Connie Jones |
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Jones performing at the French Quarter Festival in 2009
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| Background information | |
| Born | March 22, 1934 New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Died | February 14, 2019 (aged 84) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Jazz trumpeter |
| Instruments | Cornet, trumpet, bugle |
Conrad Rodman "Connie" Jones III (born March 22, 1934 – died February 14, 2019) was a famous American jazz musician from New Orleans. He was known for playing the trumpet and cornet, which are instruments similar to a trumpet but a bit smaller.
Contents
The Life of a Jazz Musician
Getting Started in Music
Connie Jones began his musical journey playing the bugle in military school. When he was 10 years old, he switched to the trumpet. His very first professional band was called the Basin Street Six. This group played traditional New Orleans jazz music, and Connie led it with his good friend, Pete Fountain. They worked together for many years.
Playing with Famous Bands
Before starting his own musical groups, Connie played with other well-known bands. He performed with the bands of Billy Maxted and Santo Pecora. He was also part of Jack Teagarden's group.
Leading His Own Music
As a bandleader, Connie Jones performed in many exciting places. He played at the Blue Angel nightclub. He also entertained people aboard the famous Mississippi steamboat, the Delta Queen.
Connie recorded several albums. In 2008, he released Creole Nocturne with pianist Tom McDermott. Later, in 2011, he recorded "If Dreams Come True" with clarinetist Tim Laughlin.
Performing for Everyone
Connie Jones was a popular musician who appeared on many television shows. These included The Today Show, The Tonight Show, and The Mike Douglas Show. He performed at major music events around the world. Some of these included the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the Satchmo SummerFest, and the Evergreen Jazz Festival.
Connie continued to perform at the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans until he retired in 2016. His band, The Crescent City Jazz Band, was the opening act for the festival for nine years in a row! After that, his group, the Connie Jones All-Stars, also opened the festival for a long time. Connie was even part of the festival's planning committee in 2009.
Awards and Retirement
Connie Jones is remembered as one of the most talented musicians to come from New Orleans. In May 2012, he received an honorary degree from Loyola University.
Connie announced his retirement from music in April 2016. He passed away in 2019.
