Fresh Air Episode Summary: "Mardi Gras With New Orleans Jazz Clarinetist Doreen Ketchens"

Release Date: March 4, 2025
Host: Tonya Moseley (NPR)
Guest: Doreen Ketchens, Jazz Clarinetist and Vocalist

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Fresh Air, host Tonya Moseley sits down with the illustrious New Orleans jazz clarinetist and vocalist, Doreen Ketchens. Known affectionately as Lady Louie, Queen Clarinet, and Ms. Satchmo, Ketchens shares her rich journey through music, her enduring partnership with her late husband Lawrence, and her deep-rooted connection to the vibrant culture of New Orleans.

A Life Steeped in Music

Early Beginnings and Classical Roots
Doreen Ketchens began her musical journey with classical clarinet training. Her trajectory took a significant turn during her time at Loyola University, where her husband Lawrence introduced her to jazz—a genre that would come to define her illustrious career.

Transition to Jazz
Initially focused on classical techniques, Ketchens was encouraged by influential figures, including Ellis Marsalis, to explore jazz clarinet. Despite initial reservations, her passion for tone and technique led her to embrace jazz, blending classical precision with the improvisational spirit of jazz.

Notable Quote:
"I was concentrating more on tone and technique, and they were more concentrated on jamming, you know, bending the notes and not really concerned about tone and stuff like that."
— Doreen Ketchens [32:06]

The Musical Partnership with Lawrence Ketchens

Meeting and Collaboration
Doreen and Lawrence met as students at Loyola University, forming both a romantic and professional partnership. Lawrence, an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, played the tuba, valve trombone, drums, and piano, adding a unique dynamic to their performances.

Innovative Performances
Their collaboration was marked by Lawrence's inventive approach, such as playing the sousaphone and drums simultaneously—a technique born out of necessity when their drummer didn't show up. This innovation led to the creation of the "tuber drummer," enriching their street performances in the French Quarter.

Notable Quote:
"Necessity is the mother of invention, and he invented the tuber drummer."
— Doreen Ketchens [06:13]

Emotional Connection Through Music
Music served as the language of their love, allowing them to communicate and connect deeply. Even after Lawrence's passing in January 2025, Doreen continues to draw strength from their shared musical memories, often feeling his presence during performances.

Notable Quote:
"I get strength from just thinking about the times he's been in the audience, you know, and giving me a nod."
— Doreen Ketchens [02:50]

Street Performances in the French Quarter

Establishing a Presence
For over three decades, Doreen and Lawrence have been a staple in the French Quarter, performing daily on Royal and St. Peter streets. Their dedication often sees them playing up to 12 hours a day, four days a week, captivating both locals and tourists alike.

Navigating Challenges
Street performances in the French Quarter come with their set of challenges, including competition for space and occasional friction with local residents. However, the duo's harmonious partnership and exceptional talent have consistently won over audiences.

Notable Quote:
"We're extremely blessed because, you know, we always seem to find that combination that makes people say, oh, my goodness."
— Doreen Ketchens [13:58]

Creating Moments Through Music
Their performances transcend mere entertainment, creating moments where passersby pause, listen, and connect with the music on a profound level. This ability to engage and move people is a testament to their artistry and dedication.

Musical Style and Influences

Blend of Dixieland and Traditional Jazz
Ketchens' style is deeply influenced by Dixieland and traditional jazz, mirroring the passion and improvisational flair of legends like Louis Armstrong. Her ability to sustain high notes with remarkable control adds a distinctive layer to her performances.

Signature Techniques
Beyond her vocal prowess, Ketchens incorporates unique techniques such as the clarinet growl—a signature sound achieved through specific throat and tongue movements. She has even shared tutorials on YouTube, showcasing her dedication to her craft.

Notable Quote:
"There are two ways of doing a growl. There's one with the throat, you know, like that, like you're gargling. And there's another one with a tongue, like a Spanish R."
— Doreen Ketchens [07:20]

Homage to Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong remains a significant influence for Ketchens. She draws inspiration from his ability to infuse each performance with fresh emotion, continually seeking new interpretations of familiar melodies.

Notable Quote:
"Louis Armstrong is like, a big influence on me... there's always something new."
— Doreen Ketchens [15:39]

Personal Loss and Continuing the Legacy

Dealing with Grief
The passing of Lawrence in January 2025 was a profound loss for Ketchens. Initially, she struggled to perform, finding it difficult to listen to their shared music without breaking down. However, through dedication and support from family, she navigates her grief by continuing to honor their legacy through music.

Notable Quote:
"I have to cross, you know, I gotta step to the right or something like that. And then I'm okay. And I play and I can play like he's here."
— Doreen Ketchens [39:38]

Memorial Performances
Ketchens has performed at Lawrence's memorial service, turning personal mourning into a communal celebration of his life and their shared musical journey. This act of performing serves as both tribute and healing.

Support from Family and Faith
With the support of her daughter and faith, Ketchens finds solace in her continued performances. Her family's presence and spiritual beliefs reinforce her resilience and determination to keep playing.

Notable Quote:
"If she hadn't been there that morning when I woke up and he was gone, I would have been alone in that big old house, you know, I'd have still been all right."
— Doreen Ketchens [39:38]

Memorable Performances and Achievements

Kennedy Center Performance
One of Ketchens' career highlights was her performance at the Kennedy Center in 2023. Accompanied by her band, Doreen's Jazz New Orleans, she delivered a standout performance that garnered national attention, including coverage by Ted Koppel and CBS Sunday Morning.

Notable Quote:
"It was a joint collaboration, but I just came up with the melody and the words, which came really easily because of what Lawrence established in the piece already."
— Doreen Ketchens [44:10]

Long-Standing Traditions and Community Impact
Ketchens' involvement in New Orleans' rich traditions, such as jazz funerals and second line parades, underscores her integral role in the community's cultural fabric. Her music not only entertains but also serves as a medium for communal expression and remembrance.

Closing Thoughts

Doreen Ketchens embodies the spirit of New Orleans jazz through her unwavering dedication, innovative techniques, and heartfelt performances. Her journey—a blend of personal triumphs, profound losses, and relentless passion—serves as an inspiring testament to the enduring power of music. As she continues to perform and honor her late husband Lawrence's legacy, Ketchens remains a beloved figure in the French Quarter, captivating audiences with every note.

Final Quote:
"I want to be the best. In order to be great, you gotta keep aspiring to be great."
— Doreen Ketchens [16:12]

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Through Music: Ketchens demonstrates how music can be a source of strength and healing, especially in the face of personal loss.

• Innovation in Performance: Lawrence's creation of the tuber drummer exemplifies how necessity can drive creative musical solutions.

• Cultural Stewardship: Ketchens plays a pivotal role in preserving and evolving New Orleans' jazz traditions, ensuring their relevance for future generations.

• Personal Growth and Legacy: Embracing influences like Louis Armstrong, Ketchens continually seeks to infuse her performances with fresh perspectives while honoring her roots.

End of Summary