An Organ Grinder Moving Through the Streets of New Orleans Photographed by Arnold Genthe in the 1920s

The organ grinder was a musical novelty street performer of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th century, and refers to the operator of a street or barrel organ.

While New Orleans was known for its live musical traditions, organ grinders were part of a broader tradition of itinerant street performers. However, by the 1920s, this form of entertainment was beginning to decline as radio, recorded music, and changing urban regulations became more common. In many cities, including New Orleans, street performers like organ grinders were subject to municipal regulations and could be viewed as nuisances or even beggars by some members of society.

Despite this, they contributed to the city’s diverse cultural landscape, offering a nostalgic link to older forms of entertainment and a unique charm that is still remembered today.