Marrero: Academy of Our Lady Performs at Jazz Fest

By Ms. Addison Gros and Ms. Mardi Hester

(Marrero, LA – April 30) – After a year of exciting performances, Academy of Our Lady’s (AOL’s) ECHO choir took the stage at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on Friday, April 25. Under the leadership of the school's music teacher, Mr. Clark Knighten, the girls spent weeks preparing for the Gospel Tent performance, while at the same time trying to overcome nervousness and to grow in confidence.

Seniors like Kayla Boudreaux called the opportunity “an accomplishment we all celebrated together,” while younger members Raychel Barnes described the excitement she had experienced from hearing about the performance in the local news.

For many, ECHO has been more than just a choir—it’s been a second home. Despite challenges throughout the year, the girls’ perseverance and unity shone through.

“Jazz Fest was about more than singing,” Mr. Knighten said. “It was about growing in spirit and sharing the gift of music with others.”

Congratulations, Penguins!

Note: The authors are Academy of Our Lady's Class of 2025 yearbook students.