New Orleans Jam Session
A lively monthly New Orleans jam led by Dom Pipkin, celebrating brass-band grooves, second-line rhythms and the spirit of the French Quarter.
South London’s Home of New Orleans Jazz & Second-Line Groove
Mark your calendar each month as Toulouse Lautrec Jazz Club turns into a slice of the French Quarter, a monthly New Orleans Jam Session celebrating traditional jazz, second-line rhythms, bluesy brass-band energy, and early swing.
Our jam invites musicians and singers of all levels to bring their instrument (or voice) and join a top-class house band for a night of collective improvisation, big melodies and joyous grooves. The evening begins with a short opening set from the house band before opening the floor to guest musicians. Whether you’re here to play or simply soak up the atmosphere, this is a welcoming, community-driven night celebrating the sound of New Orleans.
Hosted by Dom Pipkin
Described by Blues in Britain as “one of the world’s greatest exponents of New Orleans piano,” Dom Pipkin is a pianist, vocalist and songwriter with a career spanning nearly three decades. After several years running the acclaimed Ikos New Orleans Music Shop jam session, he now brings his expertise to lead this session. A regular performer in New Orleans, he has appeared at Piano Night and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and worked with artists including David Byrne, Ray Davies and Morcheeba, as well as sharing stages with Allen Toussaint and Dr John. A specialist in the music of James Booker, Pipkin delivers an authentic, infectious blend of blues, gospel and second-line groove, whether performing solo or with his band The Ikos.
How to join the jam
- Pick up a Musician ticket online or on the door (free with bar purchase).
- Sign up with the host: list your instrument/vocal range and preferred tunes/keys.
- Keep it tight: short solos, listen hard, and support the ensemble.
- Familiar forms encouraged: blues, early jazz standards, spirituals, Mardi Gras grooves, and second-line feels.
Backline & Setup
- Backline: Grand Piano, Guitar Amp, Bass Amp, Congas and Drum Kit, Vocal and Instrument mics
- Bring: sticks, cymbals, guitars, reeds, harmonicas and any essentials you need.
- Horn players especially welcome; this is New Orleans after all.
FAQs
Can beginners join?
Absolutely, this is a welcoming jam, and we’ll make sure everyone gets a chance to shine.
Do I need to prepare tunes?
Suggested, but not essential. If you call a tune, be ready to lead it.
Contact
Questions for the host? Contact info@toulouselautrec.co.uk.
Event Details
Timings
Doors: 6:30 PM
House Band Set: 7:30 PM
Jam Session: From 8:45 PM
Musicians are FREE: Just buy a drink and join the jam.
Audience are £12: Sit back, dance and just enjoy the atmosphere.
100% of the ticket sales goes directly to the house band. By supporting this Jam Session you are supporting a community of musicians.
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