If there’s one thing everybody around the world knows about New Orleans, it’s that we were the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The other thing they probably know is, we’re the birthplace of jazz.

The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra was, for a time, one of the most successful and well-funded jazz institutions in the city. 

Today, a new CEO, Sarah Bell, is guiding the orchestra out of the financial crisis it found itself in when its founder, Irvin Mayfield, ran afoul of the law.

And one of the most influential voices of the city’s recovery from Hurricane Katrina, Garland Robinette, has left radio to continue a career as a visual artist, co-owning with his wife, Nancy Rhett, Robinette Studios.

Artist and media luminary Garland Robinette, and NOJO CEO Sarah Bell join Peter Ricchiuti on this edition of Out to Lunch. 

We find out what it’s like for Garland to go from being one of the city’s most influential voices, to sitting down behind an easel, alone, painting. And find out from Sarah what it’s like trying to run an orchestra when people know more about your criminal record than your latest record.

Photos at Commander’s Palace by Alison Moon.