Traptism By Fire

Playing in the high school marching band has been a natural stepping stone for many New Orleans musicians. In addition to learning the fundamentals of an instrument, the preparation and performances during weekly football games, combined with the cacophony of sounds and bright lights of Mardi Gras parades, create the perfect environment for these adolescents, one their future careers are built on. Trombonist Rashaad “Squirrel” Collins’ path to regular gigs as a member of Sporty’s Brass Band — as well as joining the Grammy-nominated Hot 8 Brass Band onstage at this year’s Jazz Fest — has been anything but normal.