Alois Maxwell Hirt
November 7, 2024 – April 27, 2024

Al Hirt called “Jumbo” by his friends was also know as “The King”. Al is ofter credited to making New Orleans Dixieland Band music popular after WWll.
Al’s father, a New Orleans policeman bought young Al a trumpet at a pawn shop. Hirt began performing professionally at the age of 16. He then attended the Cinncinati Conservatory of Music and after that served in the military during World War 2. After the war, he played with swing bands of Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and others. He returned to New Orleans and began leading his own band

In his rise to fame in mainstream USA he performed Java on the Ed Sullivan Show 1963. Al’s fine trumpet sound and masterful dexterity led to his quick rise to popularity. .He was credited to bringing New Orleans music to national prominance. He was highy regarded for his musical ability. President Clinton as a teenager made a pilgramage to Al’s Bourbon Street Club to hear him perform. Al’s club was a distination for celebrities and tourists for years. Al was a minority holder and founder of the NFL team the New Orleans Saints. Al was credited with the clubs name the ‘Saints’

Among Al’s accomplishments: World’s Top Trumpeter (15 different years) by Playboy magazine. Al recorded more than 50 albums in his career, and played for millions of people around the world Artist of the Year by the Music Operators of America Grammy Performed for 5 presidents Lifetime Achievement Award from the Charlie “Bird” Parker Memorial Foundation When Pope John Paul II visited New Orleans in 1987, Al played Handel’s “Ave Maria” for him.

An Al Hirt quote: “I’m not a jazz trumpet and never was a jazz trumpet” Al liked melodies.