The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival each spring is known for hosting some of the world’s most famous jazz, funk and rock acts. Yet it’s also become a showcase for lesser-known talent: local schoolchildren.
Gospel choirs from area high schools took the stage Friday at the festival’s famed Gospel Tent, continuing a decades-long tradition for Louisiana students.
First up to perform was the Eleanor McMain choir, jolting the audience with a blast of musical joy, from the rollicking call-and-response of “Melodies From Heaven” to an a cappella rendition of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”…