MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – The Excelsior Band needs no introduction. They show up for parades and community events, providing the soundtrack for Mobile’s Mardi Gras.
This weekend, the Port City showed up for them — the “Keep the Music Playing Inaugural Gala” helping raise money to provide them with a permanent home. Proceeds going towards the renovation of the Historic Ace Theatre.
“It’s one thing to see them in the streets for Mardi Gras and here and there — but to see them here tonight and to honor us is amazing,” said Danny Mosley, Excelsior Band.
Founded in 1883, the Excelsior Band is believed to be the oldest marching jazz band in the United States.
“That legacy is huge and I just think it is important that we keep it up and it’s such an important part of the community from Mardi Gras — to just any time of the year,” said Katherine Dukes.
Steeped with tradition, for a long time it was an all-boys club — until LaDarrel Bell — on the drums — came into the fold, following in her brother’s footsteps.
“Growing up, I never imagined actually playing with the Excelsior Band. I would always attend the Mardi Gras parades growing up and stand on barricades and I watched them go by. Just never imagined to be able to have the opportunity to play and when it came, it was just a once in a lifetime opportunity,” recalled LaDarrel.
As the first female Excelsior Band member she had a lot to prove but says she was welcomed with open arms — first filling in from time to time.
“Mr. London — he’s our band leader — he’s like you’re pretty good — So, when I got that approval from those veterans in the band, I was like this is something I can maybe continue doing… They kept inviting me back,” said LaDarrel.
Thirteen years later, she shines in a band that stands out wherever they play. Her advice to other young ladies: “Your talents need to be heard and people need to see you and hear just be encouraged. Just if you love music, continue to play,” said LaDarrel.
As they work with young musicians through the “Jazz Studio” — essentially training up the next generation — they’re enjoying every minute of the present — being a member of the Excelsior elite.
“It’s easy to do when you love what you do. Us being members of the band, you might think it gets old to us — that we get tired of it. We don’t! We enjoy it because the crowd enjoys it. This is what they expect from the Excelsior Band — and we’re going to keep that going for years to come,” said Danny.
If you would like to help the Excelsior Band as they move forward with their new permanent home — click here.
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