Sammie ‘Big Sam’ Williams is a trombonist, band leader, and native New Orleanian. He currently leads ‘Big Sam's Crescent City Connection,’ as well as the local favorite – ‘Big Sam's Funky Nation.’ During his youth, he studied with educator and saxophonist Kidd Jordan at New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA). In his teens, Big Sam was a founding member of the Stooges Brass Band, and later joined the Dirty Dozen, allowing him to meet and play with other touring bands and musicians such as Karl Denson, Dave Matthews, Widespread Panic, and James Brown. After one year with the Dirty Dozen, Sam began a side project broadening his musical ambitions. In 2006, he played with Elvis Costello and Allen Toussaint on their Grammy-nominated "The River in Reverse" album and subsequent international tour. His energy and charism, combined with an uncanny ability to rhythmically captivate his audience, has earned him a diverse and loyal fan-base, world-wide. Big Sam's Crescent City Connection is certain to deliver the heart and soul of NOLA, as much as the party and pizazz, right to The Jazz Playhouse stage. *Preferred Seating for small parties only. Parties of 8 or more people must inquire via email to Lward@sonesta.com to reserve.* **Refund available upon cancellation of reservation within 72 hours of show time**