The Rebirth Brass Band - with Envy

On September 1, 2012, The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) will present the first of its annual cultural events with the Second Line Parade led by Grammy award-winning Rebirth Brass Band through the streets of Charlottesville. The Second Line will be followed by a fundraising concert at Jefferson Theater to benefit the programs offered by the African American Heritage Center. 2012 Grammy Award winner, the Rebirth Brass Band is a New Orleans institution. Formed in 1983 by the now well-known Frazier brothers, the band has evolved from playing the streets of the French Quarter to playing festivals and stages all over the world. Rebirth is committed to upholding the tradition of brass bands while simultaneously incorporating modern music into their show. Their signature brand of heavy funk has not only won over several generations of music lovers, it has become the soundtrack to an entire city. According to one New York Times review, "the group chases down euphoria one boisterous groove at a time."  The Rebirth Brass Band is considered one of New Orleans' preeminent Second Line bands. African slaves brought Second Line to New Orleans in the 19th century, extending one of the oldest African-derived parade traditions to America. During that time, Second Line Parades became an integral part of jazz funerals. By the end of the century, it was a main celebratory practice of African American social aid and pleasure clubs. A Second Line has two parts: the First Line is usually the band or the ones being honored, and the Second Line then forms behind the band, dancing and strutting to the lively music with handkerchiefs or cocktail napkins. "Second Line parades create a sense of community, and we hope both to educate our community in African American traditions as well as to provide a way for people to come together in celebration of these traditions," said African American Heritage Center Director Andrea Douglas. The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center's mission is to honor and preserve the rich heritage and legacy of the African American community of Charlottesville-Albemarle, Virginia and to promote a greater appreciation for and understanding of the contributions of peoples of color locally, nationally, and globally. It will open in January 2013 and offer intergenerational programs that include its permanent exhibition "Pride Overcomes Prejudice," a local history center, temporary exhibitions, performances, and film and lecture series. Rebirth Brass Band: Simply put, The Rebirth Brass Band is a New Orleans institution. Formed in 1983 by the now infamous Frazier brothers, the band has evolved from playing the streets of the French Quarter to playing festivals and stages all over the world. Rebirth is committed to upholding the tradition of brass bands while at the same time incorporating modern music into their show. Their signature brand of heavy funk has not only won over several generations of music lovers, it has become the soundtrack to an entire city. In the wake of the sometimes-stringent competition amongst brass bands, Rebirth is the undisputed leader of the pack, and they show no signs of slowing down. For information about VIP tickets, contact Tom Walker, Jefferson School African American Heritage Center 434.409.5361 from 10  am - 4 pm.