New Orleans' master jazz saxophonist Earl Turbinton has an interesting perspective on his chosen art form. He sees the development of jazz like the growth of a tree sprouting many new branches as it ages, each one growing in its own direction while sharing the same roots. Earl feels as many of us do: the evolution of Jazz is as important as the preservation of Jazz. The music is only as healthy as the care and attention given it.

The Louisiana Jazz Federation sees Jazz as an original Ameri...