Over this past spring break, the Big Sky High School Band Program took a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana.

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz music, which makes it a travel destination for musicians all over the world. It’s also famous for attractions such as the club filled French Quarter, Mardis Gras World, and of course, the bayou. The city’s rich history gives tourists a taste of why the culture has shaped itself into what it has become today.

Big Sky Band members were given the opportunity to experience the city of New Orleans in it’s entirety, walking from place to place every day, wandering the French Quarter, participating in tours of the infamous Laura and Oak Alley plantations, enjoying a boat ride through the swamps of the bayou, spotting alligators and other wildlife at Cajun Pride Swamp Tours, being treated with a private concert by the Preservation Hall Jazz Ensemble, and even getting the chance to perform a few of their own jazz selections on the streets of the city, cashing in about $100.

“I really enjoyed it. The weather was super nice, and with all of the music playing everywhere — it was amazing!” says senior Ashley Jacks.