Original Camellia Jazz Band

Taking its name from a steam paddle wheeler that, in a bygone era, ran excursions across Lake Ponchartrain from Milneburg to Mandeville, the Original Camellia Jazz Band has become one of the most musically consistent and visible bands in New Orleans today.

A working unit, they are equally happy to play for a Sunday Brunch, a convention party, a dinner dance or wedding reception. Every engagement shows off their versatility nicely with a wide spectrum of tunes - from traditional jazz classics like Tiger Rag and Basin Street Blues, to great standards of the 30s and 40s such as 'S Wonderful and Stardust.

The Camellia can perform in the full six or seven-piece format, or as the Camellia Trio or Quartet for more relaxed, soft jazz. The smaller format works well also as a strolling group or mini-parade band.