OffBeat sends a hearty hats-off and a happy birthday to Lionel Ferbos, the city’s most venerable jazz musician who turns a sprightly 102 today (July 17). Two years ago, trumpeter and singer Ferbos was likely the first jazzman in history to perform at his own 100th birthday party. He won’t be repeating that feat this year, but played last Sunday afternoon at the National World War II Museum’s Sunday Swing series. (Ferbos’ usual stomping ground, the Palm Court is closed for renovations through September 18).

Lionel Ferbos. Photo by Greg Miles

Born in the Treme, Ferbos played in early jazz bands including Captain Handy’s Louisiana Shakers, which toured the Gulf Coast in 1932, and the Works Progress Administration Jazz Band during the Depression. (The name Louisiana Shakers has been revived for one of Ferbos’ current bands). According to a USA Today story noting his 100th birthday, Ferbos still practices for 45 minutes every day. The article also noted that Ferbos was born the same year as Lucille Ball, Mahalia Jackson and Ronald Reagan, all of whom he’s outlived.

Ferbos will appear with Lars Edegran’s Ragtime Orchestra at Satchmo SummerFest at 1:15pm on Saturday, August 3rd.