Joe Lastie

When Joe Lastie received his first drum kit at the age of eight, he seemed destined to carry on the traditions of a family line of musicians. Born and raised in the Lower Ninth Ward, he was inspired early on by his grandfather, a pastor who was responsible for popularizing the drum kit in church music. As a child, he practiced tirelessly, setting up a small drum kit at the foot of his grandparents' bed and playing on any drums he could get his hands on. His journey led him to accompany the Desire community choir, then to study in New York and at the Dryades Street YMCA alongside young talents such as Wynton and Branford Marsalis. Back in New Orleans, he performed with bassist Richard Payne before joining the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in 1989 on the advice of trumpeter Gregg Stafford, where he has been the regular drummer ever since.

At 7 p.m., this key figure in New Orleans jazz will close the festival. After sharing his knowledge in a masterclass, Joe Lastie will return to the stage for a final concert that is both spiritual and festive. It will be a vibrant and warm way to say goodbye to the 2025 edition, in a breath of tradition and shared groove.