WWNO skyline header graphic
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Local Newscast
Hear the latest from the WWNO/WRKF Newsroom.

Jazz Musician Lionel Ferbos Dies At 103

Infrogmation
/
Flickr

New Orleans has lost one of its oldest jazz musicians. Lionel Ferbos passed away Saturday — two days after he turned 103 years old.

Lionel Ferbos began his music career during the Great Depression.

He played trumpet in the Works Progress Administration jazz band. He continued performing until earlier this year.

Ferbos was able to attend his 103rd birthday party at the Palm Court Jazz Café in the French Quarter, where he performed for more than 20 years. At that party, birthday wishes were sent by President Obama and the First Lady.

He was known to advise younger musicians to “practice, practice, practice.” He died at his New Orleans home surrounded by friends and family.

Eileen is a news reporter and producer for WWNO. She researches, reports and produces the local daily news items. Eileen relocated to New Orleans in 2008 after working as a writer and producer with the Associated Press in Washington, D.C. for seven years.

👋 Looks like you could use more news. Sign up for our newsletters.

* indicates required
New Orleans Public Radio News
New Orleans Public Radio Info