Save for times when I took in theatre and classical music as a child, it took until I was an adult to venture out to hear “my music”. The notion of hearing something live and in person is such a game changer-it gives you a wave of energy and reaffirms what it is about that music that you love. With the music of the early 1900s, I figured it would be an uphill battle to find places and performers resurrecting the sounds of the past. After some fervent searching, I came across the annual Jazz Age Lawn Party, held twice a summer on Governor’s Island, in New York City. I just knew I had to go and see what it was all about. At long last, this past Saturday, that’s exactly what I did.
One MegaBus and ferry later, I was on Governor’s Island following the line to the Party’s ticket takers. I had seen hints of period dress on the ferry, but the sight that greeted me on the island was amazing. 
A line of finely dressed flappers and gentlemen stood before me. In my modern dress and sneakers, I wasn’t breaking a dress code, but I felt a slight pang of guilt nevertheless. Once I had taken this in and the line had moved up, I moved with my program to find the main stage. I was soon seated to experience the first part of the entertainment.
The first order of business was to teach those who were willing, and able, to Charleston. On hand for this endeavor was Roddy Caravella. From what I witnessed, those who learned could not have asked for a better teacher. Caravella has been teaching and performing jazz dance for the past 25 years, and has been part of the Lawn Party since it began 13 years ago. Caravella began slowly, giving his charges the easier steps. He then eased them into rougher waters. Soon, however, all were dancing like they were born for the task.
Pictured: The awkward beginnings.
After this, the star of the Lawn Party took to the stage. Michael Arenella is the founder of the Lawn Party, leader of His Dreamland Orchestra and an amazing performer. He painstakingly transposes actual music from the 1920s and his orchestra performs it. People who had just learned (or had a refresher) were dancing, Roddy’s dance troupe, the Canarsie Wobblers, performed, and there was an electricity in the air, coming from the music.
I’ve inserted a (very) brief clip of the dancing and music. It is but a small sample of the wonder I found on Governor’s Island that day. I am definitely going back to the Lawn Party next year. It is keeping the sounds of the 1920s alive and very well.
Music Through the Mists of Time 