NEA Jazz Master Donald Harrison Jr., the internationally-recognized composer, educator and jazz saxophonist, has made a triumphant return to New Orleans after recovering from a recent heart attack. Harrison suffered a cardiac event while performing at Hawaii’s Big Island Jazz & Blues Festival earlier this month. Still, he underwent successful surgery and has resumed his passion for music.

Rather than taking an extended break, Harrison rejoined the annual Louis Satchmo Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp in New Orleans, where he has been a pivotal figure. Having initially served as an artist-in-residence at the camp, he later took over as Artistic Director following the retirement of the esteemed Kidd Jordan. Additionally, Harrison holds the title of Big Chief of Congo Square, a significant position in Afro-New Orleans culture.

Expressing his dedication to education and mentoring, Harrison stated, “I have always been an educator at heart and want to give students the tools needed to perform in multiple professional settings so they are able to play any style of music they love at their highest level and earn an income doing it. I could not miss the opportunity to work with these talented young people.” Harrison teaches classes, leads rehearsals, and dedicates several daily hours to guide and inspire the students.

The Louis Satchmo Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp students will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in an ensemble performance at the Jazz Camp’s upcoming fundraiser on July 5. The event will occur at the George and Joyce Wein Center at 1225 N. Rampart Street. Furthermore, they will culminate their learning journey with a highly anticipated Culminating Concert on Friday, July 7, which will be held at Loyola University Roussel Hall.