This documentary tells the story of the only female brass band in New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz. Brass bands in New Orleans are a musical genre that is overwhelmingly male dominated. It's a gritty, tough, marching band musical ...See moreThis documentary tells the story of the only female brass band in New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz. Brass bands in New Orleans are a musical genre that is overwhelmingly male dominated. It's a gritty, tough, marching band musical culture that bubbles up from the streets. From the first moment of their original formation as a band, the Pinettes have to fight for respect. Because they're females in a male dominated field, they struggle to be taken seriously as musicians, and to be considered innovators and standard bearers for a century old musical tradition. After sharpening their performing skills and honing their repertoire, the Pinettes decide to compete in the legendary Red Bull Street Kings brass band competition. As you might expect, their initial effort falls short. Three long years later they return with a vengence and take the title, renaming it from Street Kings to Street Queens and retiring the competition because sponsors felt it was impossible to ever top the drama of their improbable victory. We also learn the background and motivations of these powerful ladies who demand respect from their male contemporaries and are celebrated by a loyal fan base. Along the way, we hear from some key contributors that expand on the uniqueness and the passion that the Pinettes display in their pursuit of their musical mission. At this historical moment of women's empowerment, it is heartening to experience yet another example of ladies getting their due.
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