NEW YORK, NY May 05, 2006 —Last night the Jazz Foundation of America took over the Apollo Theater and raised the roof as well as some money to support older jazz and blues musicians, and bring awareness to the continuing need for instruments and affordable housing for musicians in New Orleans.

REPORTER: Odetta opened the show with “Something Inside So Strong".

Dr. Michael White, leader of the Original Liberty Jazz band was there to thank the Foundation for their support of the many bereft musicians in Louisiana. White says that since Hurricane Katrina his band is bringing a new focus to the music.

WHITE: I lost my home and I lost a tremendous archive of jazz and related music materials. Everything from recordings to books and instruments, sheet music, videos; very valuable items. But I realize that the most valuable thing I have is the music. And I remember the first time I was able to get my band together it was a very special and spiritual experience and I think I’ve noticed how more and more the playing seems to be the most important thing there is to me now.

REPORTER: Elvis Costello just back from New Orleans says the Foundation is so effective because it gives directly to individual cases.

COSTELLO: What it does is it makes sure that people who have already give us something you know with their talent are taken care of if things do not work out so well for them in practical matters and financial matters and matters of health.

REPORTER: The music spilled out into the streets as Johnnie Mae Dunson Smith sang from her wheel chair on 126th street.