Butch Thompson

Jazz Originals Holiday Show

Local pianist Butch Thompson has long been regarded as one of the country’s foremost authorities on early jazz and ragtime music. His performing prowess has taken him to stages all over the country; at age 18, he became one of few artists not native to New Orleans to perform at Preservation Hall. In 1974, he started his radio career playing piano for a local variety show called A Prairie Home Companion. He held the post of house pianist for the show for 12 years.

Thompson’s radio show Jazz Originals focuses on the early jazz he knows and loves, and allows him to give us the story behind the song. The show has been a mainstay on KBEM 88.5 FM for a number of years, and his Holiday Show is a perennial favorite. Featuring longtime collaborator Laura Sewell on cello, and a special appearance by Santa Claus on cornet! Come in and be a part of this popular radio program.

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