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At the age of 12, Kenny Ard joined a band in New Orleans called Dunk's Honky Tonks, which was a Dixieland group just for kids managed by an old New Orleans musician by the name of Warren Duncan. There were about five of these groups who performed simultaneously all over town, sometimes getting paid and sometimes "passing the hat"...... |
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This early experience proved to be vital in Ard's future, since he has been playing professionally since that time. All through his high school and early college years, Ard had a group called The Morning Mist (catchy, huh! )
Upon entering the University of New Orleans as a music major, Ard joined the jazz ensemble where he was exposed to some of the best players in town. For the next ten years or so, he played every type of venue in New Orleans, from elegant society parties to rowdy jazz bars.
The big break came when he began accompanying B.J. Crosby, who was known as Lady BJ at the time. Ms. Crosby is now heading up the cast for the New York production of One Mo' Time which opened in March 2002. She has previously starred in Smokey Joe's Cafe for which she received a Tony nomination for best actress in a musical. Ard has also backed Irma Thomas, who was nominated for a Grammy Award in the blues category this year.
After moving to San Diego in 1987, he has played in many of the musical venues around town, including Croce's, the Belly Up Cafe, Dick's Last Resort, Winston's, The Bayou Bar and Grill, Mille Fluers, Scalini's, Mixx Restaurant, and others. Ard's combo, Etouffee, has performed throughout southern California, and beyond. Kenny, and/or his band, are available for private bookings in any sort of venue you might require:
If you are looking for the ideal person to customize the music for your event, Kenny Ard is the person to see. Ard can help you to choose the perfect selections for your special event........
Gone are the days when rigid rituals were required for wedding ceremonies. Whether you are trying to create a completely formal atmosphere with the music of Pachelbel or Bach, or a more modern setting using the music of today, Kenny Ard can set the mood for you.
If you are not exactly sure for what music you want,. But you know how you want the mood the feel, one choose from Ard's lengthy repertoire of songs.
For the more intimate gathering, consider the sounds of the smaller ensemble which Kenny Ard will put together for your event. ........
The combination of piano and vocals, featuring an outstanding female vocalist, is the most popular, although the trio consisting of piano, drums, and bass is the ideal medium to create the perfect ambience and add that touch of class to your special event.
Other combinations of instruments are also possible, including sax, and/or guitar.
Etouffee, the band, was founded in San Diego 1987 by keyboard player and vocalist Kenny Ard. A New Orleans native, his intent was to create a combo which would be well-rounded and still maintain the New Orleans flavor that stems from his roots. .......
Blues, jazz, dixieland, dance tunes, oldies, and cover tunes, blended together with that special "Creole seasoning", give Etouffee a unique feel. Appealing to all age groups, Etouffee is the ideal band for your event.
Etouffee features an outstanding female vocalist, keyboards, a horn man (sax, clarinet, flute), drums, and bass, and can be expanded to seven pieces according to your needs and budget. Featuring an eclectic mix of music with a heart full of soul, Etouffee will make your even a truly memorable, fun experience. For more information about the Etouffee band please click on 'My Etouffee Band' below.
Music is so very important to your special, once-in-a-lifetime event. You owe it to yourself to have the sounds of Etouffee customize your party.
If interested in possibly scheduling an event or just to find out additional information please contact Kenny by clicking below.
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