UNFORESEEN EVENTS – Part VI

New Orleans experienced its first snowfall in seventy-six years. That night a cold wind blew through the streets and alleys of the French Quarter, yet Bourbon Street was alive with celebrants braving the elements to observe the coming of the New Year. At The Fairmont Hotel on Canal Street the dance floor was crowded with couples dancing to the music of the Blue Palmetto Orchestra.

It was Ethan’s second New Years Eve with the band. From his first experience in Las Vegas he embraced the lifestyle. For more than a year he traveled across the country for the band’s playdates, going from the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest, then to the Eastern Seaboard and the Florida Gold Coast. 

From time to time the other musicians took “sanity breaks”, flying home to rest and spend time with loved ones. Ethan always chose to stay in the last town they played and then travel on in his Woody to the town where the band would reunite for their next show. He found traveling endlessly fascinating. It awakened something in him that made him feel more alive.

Howard White arrived in New Orleans the day after Christmas to make preparations for coming playdates. Ethan was already in the city and met Howard at a cafe on Royal Street. 

“How was your Christmas?” said Howard.

“Spent it here. And yours?”

“I don’t like Christmas. Never did.”

“You’ve told me that before.”

“When did you leave Miami?”

“About ten days ago. Got a good taste of the deep south coming here.”

“What do you think?”

“Definitely not LA.”

“Have you found a place to stay?”

“I got an upstairs room at a boarding house on St. Peter Street.”

“What’s it cost?”

“Ten bucks a week.”

“You sure find the deals.”

“They’ve got a couple rooms open if you’re interested.”

“That’s okay. I have the rest of us booked at Pied de Terre on Canal Street. Have you eaten yet?”

“No, I’m starved.”

“Let me treat you.”

“Thanks man.”

When they finished their meal the two men walked to Jackson Square and sat for awhile on a park bench.

“Howard, I’m going to leave the band,” said Ethan.

“No. Really? Why?”

“I want to stay in New Orleans for awhile. There are venues here with groups that make amazing music. This town is magic.” 

“Is there any way I can talk you out of this?”

“Not really. I have other reasons.”

“Like what? Are you having conflicts with the other guys?”

“No. Everyone is outstanding. This has been the best time of my life. But I have to tell you, I’m getting disenchanted with the drums.”

“How’s that?”

“It’s not just one thing. The life of always rehearsing and then performing on most weekends has kept me from things I wish I could do. I don’t really have a social life.”

“Well that does come with the territory,” said Howard.

“I know. But being a drummer is arduous. The tedium of setting up and breaking down my traps every night contrasts with the others. Y’know, watching the strings, the brass and woodwinds put their instruments in little cases and go their merry way can be demoralizing.”

“I’ll give you that. You have the hardest job in the band.”

“Yes. And it’s very physical being a drummer. Your arms and legs are in constant motion for four and five hours at a time. Even at my age I’m worn out after a show. Take’s me most of the next day to get up to strength again. I need to stop for awhile. I want to stay here and just absorb some culture.”

“You could do worse. But Ethan, how much longer will you play for us. I mean I’ll have to find another drummer, which will take a little time.”

“No problem Howard. I won’t leave you guys in the lurch. What do think, thirty days? Longer?”

“That’ll probably work. I expect I can find someone but man, we will miss you.”

“It’s been a good run, Howard. I’ve sure enjoyed drumming with you guys.”  

“You’ve been a great asset to the orchestra, but it sounds like you do need a break, Ethan.”

“Oh thanks for saying that, Howard. I thought you might hate me for leaving.”

“Naw… like I’ve told you before, we all make our choices. I don’t make yours and you don’t make mine. It’s just life.”

“I will miss you my friend,” said Ethan.

“And I you. Now I have some calls to make. The others will be here on Wednesday. Friday night is New Years Eve and we want to be warmed up for the show.”

After the two parted company Ethan walked over to the banks of the Mississippi River where the elegant Delta Queen was docked. The Mississippi sternwheeler had just arrived from upriver. Scores of well dressed people disembarked from the ship appearing festive and eager for the celebrations that lay ahead. Ethan observed the scene with his characteristic fascination.  

The Blue Palmetto Orchestra finished their last set at the Fairmont at 1AM on January 1st, 1964. Afterwards some of the band members strolled over to the celebrations on Bourbon Street. Ethan chose to return to his room. He could have partied all night but he knew it would be bittersweet. He felt a great sadness at parting with the people from whom he had learned so much.

to be continued…