Fats Domino Set to Help Young Musicians

Fats Domino is coming out of his post-Katrina seclusion to help a cause near to his heart _ getting instruments into the hands of the city's young musicians.

The 78-year-old Hall of Fame performer was to sign autographs Monday evening for his new album, "Alive and Kickin," before the Tipitina's Foundation's 5th Annual "Instruments A-Comin'" benefit concert, organizers said.

The album was released as a benefit for the foundation, associated with the city's historic nightclub. The Tipitina's Foundation helped local musicians find housing and new instruments after the storm.

Money raised from the "Instruments A-Comin'" concert and silent auction will go toward getting instruments for the city's school music programs. Some of this year's performers are Galactic, Leo Nocentelli, the Rebirth Brass Band, and Voice of the Wetlands, featuring George Porter Jr., Anders Osborne, Tab Benoit and Big Chief Monk Boudreaux.

Foundation director Bill Taylor said one of Domino's biggest concerns, especially since Katrina displaced more than half the city's musicians, has been the next generation of musicians.

"He's always asking about the kids, how they're doing," Taylor said.

So far the foundation has provided more than $500,000 worth of donated instruments to the next generation of New Orleans musicians.

Domino's public appearances have been scarce since he was famously evacuated from his flooded home after Hurricane Katrina. His first public performance since then will be Sunday as he closes out this year's New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival with Paul Simon, Irma Thomas, Lionel Richie, Ellis Marsalis and Pete Fountain.