The Musical Interpretation Intern will work primarily indoors within New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and the French Quarter Visitor Center. Approximately 80 percent of the internship takes place in climate-controlled facilities where the intern will collaborate closely with interpretive staff, musicians, and one to two fellow interns.
The remaining work may include supporting public performances, community events, and interpretive programs held throughout the French Quarter. The internship offers a collaborative and creative environment centered on music, history, and visitor engagement.
The Musical Interpretation Intern will help preserve and share the rich musical heritage of New Orleans by combining historical research, public interpretation, and live musical performance. Working alongside National Park Service staff, the intern will develop and present engaging programs that explore the history, culture, and lasting influence of jazz and African American musical traditions.
Throughout the internship, the intern will research a topic related to New Orleans’ musical heritage and create a formal interpretive presentation for park visitors. They will also assist with visitor services, provide informal interpretation at the French Quarter Visitor Center, support educational programming, and contribute to community engagement efforts throughout the city.
Primary responsibilities include:
Through these experiences, the intern will gain practical experience interpreting history through music while helping visitors connect with one of America’s most influential cultural traditions.
The internship provides hands-on experience in interpretation, music education, public engagement, and cultural resource stewardship. The intern will strengthen skills in historical research, interpretive program development, public speaking, visitor services, and professional communication.
Working alongside National Park Service staff and community partners, the intern will gain a deeper understanding of jazz history, African American cultural heritage, and the role of music in preserving and interpreting America’s shared history.
The internship also offers valuable experience working within a collaborative team environment while developing skills applicable to careers in interpretation, education, museums, public history, arts administration, and the National Park Service.
The Musical Interpretation Intern will receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced National Park Service interpreters and park staff throughout the internship.
A designated supervisor will provide guidance on research, interpretive planning, visitor engagement, scheduling, and professional development. Park staff will offer regular coaching, constructive feedback, and opportunities to participate in public programs and special events.
The intern will work closely with interpretive rangers and musicians while learning how music, storytelling, and historical interpretation come together to create engaging visitor experiences. Additional staff members will also be available to provide support, answer questions, and introduce the intern to various aspects of park operations and National Park Service careers.
Preferred applicants should possess:
Students studying music performance, music education, jazz studies, music history, ethnomusicology, communications, or related disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Discover the roots of jazz at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, our park offers live performances, exhibits, and programs that celebrate the legacy of America’s unique musical art form. Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culture of jazz, a sound that continues to inspire the world. Join us in preserving and celebrating the music!
Stipend: $19.20/Hour
Duration: 12 Weeks (Full-Time)
Location: 419 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is located in the heart of the historic French Quarter, one of America’s most celebrated cultural destinations. Interns will work within walking distance of historic landmarks, live music venues, restaurants, museums, and cultural institutions that have shaped the history of jazz and American music.
Essential services, including grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and medical facilities, are located nearby, with the closest hospital approximately five miles from the visitor center. The French Quarter offers a vibrant, walkable environment where interns can experience the city’s unique musical traditions, historic architecture, and diverse cultural heritage while working alongside National Park Service professionals.
No, park housing is not available.
A personal vehicle and valid driver’s license are required.
