It’s said that jazz is the only uniquely American art form. New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz, but we can pinpoint its roots to a specific place in the city, Congo Square. Today, we hear the influence of Congo Square’s rhythm around the world.
A Historic Gathering Place
Located in Armstrong Park in the Treme neighborhood, Congo Square is steeped in African American history. Starting in the 18th century, enslaved Africans gathered in the square on their Sundays off to sing, dance, and worship. Many bought and sold goods at the market here to purchase their freedom. In 1817, the city declared that Congo Square was the only place where enslaved people could gather.
Celebrating Traditions
Congo Square is where people from different backgrounds celebrated their traditions. They danced the Bamboula, Calinda, and Congo and made music using instruments like drums, gourds, and marimbas. We can find the beginnings of jazz in this mix of cultures, from the habanera rhythm to syncopated beats, and call and response. Eventually, European influences mixed with the African and Caribbean traditions.
Evolving the Sound
After the Civil War, Black musicians took these rhythms to the street when they played in brass marching bands. This practice evolved to the jazz funeral, Mardi Gras Indians, and Second Line.
The Tradition Continues
Traditionally, Sunday was a day of rest for enslaved people giving them the opportunity to gather in Congo Square. Today, the tradition continues on Sundays with musicians and dancers celebrating Congo Square’s enduring history and culture.
As a jazz fan, it was moving to witness the Congo Square Rhythms Festival and see the incredible performers share this artistic tradition in such a historic place.
Congo Square
701 N. Rampart St.
New Orleans, LA 70116
Sources
- “Jazz Origins in New Orleans.” National Parks Service.
- Kundert, Kara. “50 States of Folk: All Roads in Jazz Lead Back to Louisiana’s Congo Square.” No Depression: The Journal of Roots Music, 27 Oct. 2021.
