New Orleans Jazz Musicians Thank the People of Ukraine
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Kyiv Music Academy
The Embassy of the United States of America in Ukraine was pleased to present a concert by the Marlon Jordan Quartet Featuring Stephanie Jordan on Sunday, November 13 as a way of expressing its appreciation for the generous donations to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and the many expressions of concern and sympathy offered by Ukrainians.
Jazz music has its roots in the city of New Orleans and this concert serves as a reminder of the intangible cultural aspects of that great city. As Ambassador John Herbst noted in his introductory remarks: "New Orleans holds a special place in the heart of music-lovers, and its role in the development of the modern American musical landscape is undeniable. Jazz is one of New Orleans’ most famous exports and, along with its distinctive food, architecture, and the rich and varied history of its inhabitants, is an important part of the city’s unique and exceptional culture. That is why these jazz concerts are important—they are musical reminders that the soul of New Orleans continues to live on beyond the reach of any physical disaster and that the city will rebuild and reestablish its glory. So may this music serve as not only a thank you to the international community for their generous support, but also as a commitment to the importance of cultural traditions alongside physical donations in the upcoming rebuilding effort."
All of the musicians who performed had ties to the city of New Orleans and a couple had lost their homes in the flood, but all were moved by the warm welcome they received from their many new fans in Kyiv.