History of the Deacons of Dixieland

The Deacons were formed by John Kepler in 1988 in State College, Pennsylvania to play Dixieland as a Christian music ministry. "Bill Bailey," "Sweet Georgia Brown," and "When The Saints Go Marching In" are a few of their standards. They also play hymns, blues, waltzes, polkas, and even a few Country tunes- in a happy Dixieland style. The audience is welcome to participate in some of the Deacons' tunes by playing washboards and parading with colorful Mardi Gras-style umbrellas.

The Deacons have played in New Orleans at Fritzel's Tavern on Bourbon Street, the Cafe Pontchatrane, the Cafe Brazil, the Tin Roof Cafe, and at Preservation Hall, where in January, 2001 they opened for the nationally renowned Preservation Hall Jazz band. The band has played for several years at the W.C. Handy Music Festival in Florence, Alabama. They have also played at the James Street Cafe in Pittsburgh and at the Hilton Hotel in Harrisburg. Some of their Central Pennsylvania engagements include:

Charities:

The Second Mile, Senior Games, Hope for Kids, and various fund-raisers.

Parks:

DelGrosso Park, Lakemont Park, Knoebles Amusement Resort, Derry
Township Park, Valley View Park, Penn's Cave, Victory Park, and the Raystown
Amphitheater.

Fairs & Festivals:

Lemont Strawberry Festival, Beaver Stadium's July 4th Fireworks
Celebration, People's Choice Festival, and the Centre County Grange Fair.

Additionally, They have played at nursing homes, retirement centers, political rallies, funerals, and weddings. The Deacons have entertained for many years at Penn State tailgate parties - both public and private - including a very successful series of three-hour performances outside the Bryce Jordan Center prior to home football games. The Deacons frequently include special vocalists and instrumentalists, including Penn State President Graham Spanier playing his self-customized turbo washboard.




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