Panorama Jazz Band

Biography

The Panorama Jazz Band is a New Orleans-based ensemble founded in 1995 by clarinetist Ben Schenck, who relocated from Washington, D.C. to New Orleans after being inspired by the city's vibrant jazz scene in the mid-1980s. Schenck's vision was to create a group that could perform without amplification, blending the traditional sounds of New Orleans jazz with the rich melodies and rhythms of klezmer and other world music traditions. The band began as a small trio and gradually expanded, performing regularly at local venues such as Lucky's on St. Charles, which helped them build a dedicated following and attract a diverse array of musicians.[1][2][4]

Panorama Jazz Band is renowned for its eclectic repertoire, which spans New Orleans jazz, klezmer, Balkan, Caribbean, and Latin American styles. Their performances are marked by a danceable energy and a commitment to both authenticity and innovation, often moving seamlessly from a Martinique swing waltz to a Macedonian wedding dance or a Jewish folk tune. Over the years, the band has released several recordings, including 'Come Out Swingin’,' 'Panoramaland,' and 'The Next One,' the latter featuring collaborations with renowned musicians and arrangements that highlight their signature fusion of genres.[2][3]

The band’s legacy is deeply tied to the New Orleans community, serving as a staple at weddings, parades, and Mardi Gras celebrations. Despite setbacks such as the displacement caused by Hurricane Katrina, Panorama Jazz Band has remained resilient, continuing to evolve and inspire both audiences and fellow musicians with their adventurous spirit and dedication to musical exploration.[1][2][3]

Fun Facts

• The band was originally conceived as a group that could perform anywhere without amplification, making them a favorite for street parades and spontaneous events.[1]
• Panorama Jazz Band has a brass band variation that marches in Mardi Gras parades and other New Orleans festivities.[2]
• After Hurricane Katrina, the band members were scattered across the country but reunited to perform at the first post-Katrina Mardi Gras, demonstrating their commitment to the New Orleans community.[1]
• Accordion is a central instrument in the band's sound, which is unusual among American jazz bands and contributes to their distinctive style.[1]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Dr. Michael White - Schenck was inspired after seeing Dr. White perform at the Smithsonian Folk Life Festival, which influenced his move to New Orleans and his musical direction. (Collaborated on the arrangement of 'Tolú' for The Next One) [1985, ongoing influence]

Key Collaborators

• Aurora Nealand - Joined as alto saxophonist, bringing a new improvisational dimension and connecting the band more firmly to a wider jazz context. (Featured on recordings and live performances since joining) [2005–present]
• Charlie Halloran - Main trombonist, contributing to both recordings and live performances. (Band member on multiple albums) [2000s–present]
• Matt Perrine - Tuba player, integral to the band's sound and arrangements. (Band member on multiple albums) [2000s–present]
• Walter McClements - Accordionist, key to the band's unique blend of styles. (Band member on multiple albums) [2000s–present]
• Sean Clark - Drummer and steam whistle player, part of the core ensemble. (Band member on multiple albums) [2000s–present]

Artists Influenced

• New Orleans wedding and party bands - Panorama's eclectic, dance-oriented approach and world music repertoire have inspired a new generation of local bands to expand their stylistic boundaries. (Live performances, community events) [2000s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. I'm Gonna Be a Wheel Someday (I'm Gonna Be a Wheel Someday)
2. Renee (Panoramaland)
3. Ba Moin En Ti Bo Doudou / Happy Birthday
4. Box Car Shorty
5. Serpent Maigre (Good Music for You)
6. Di shikerer tantz (Good Music for You)
7. Je veux vivre (feat. Katherine McClain) (Good Music for You)
8. Old MacDonald Had a Band
9. In the Summertime
10. Chororo (Good Music for You)

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz