The cultural life of New Orleans is a synthesis of contributions by both whites and Blacks. The white American heritage with its roots in French-speaking Cajun society is reflected in the business and commercial life of the city, while the immigrant heritage Irish societies, German Oktoberfests, Italian St. Joseph’s Day altars adds ethnic colour to urban conformity. The African American heritage is particularly rich. In antebellum days, free persons of colour were musicians, poets, journalists, business entrepreneurs, and landlords. Both Black freemen and slaves were renowned for their craftsmanship in such trades as bricklaying, iron grillwork, and carpentry. The contribution of African American musicians