Jon Batiste's melodica

New Orleans-born pianist Jon Batiste is about to drop his breakout album, Social Music, with his band Stay Human. Besides being a post-modern piano professor, Jon sings and plays melodica. Maybe you've seen him do that on the streets of New York, or in the HBO series Treme.

[@TheJazzmandel]

I produced this video in early spring 2014, prior to Batiste's appointment as music director for the Stephen Colbert show. Batiste was a joy to work with, as he is a joy to hear.

[@davebartholome2924]

What kind of sad, withered soul gives a thumbs down to this video? I guess I shouldn't trouble myself about such things--life is too short.

[@Diamond88keyz]

This man I can listen to him talk about music all day. What a lesson we just received about the melodica.

[@LarryShone]

You can attach a long tube, lay it flat and play with both hands like a reed organ too. Very versatile instrument.

[@laraurrutia]

Great video- Batiste seems to be a down to earth soul- refreshing to know musicians like that

[@karend169]

I remember that instrument. It was called a hooter, once upon a time, and it was played by Rob Hyman of the Hooters, and thus the name Hooters stuck. Hooter is another name for melodica.

[@RowantheHearingAssistDog]

I play one in the church praise band. People will ask "what is that?" Need to upgrade to a larger one. I don't really care for the other name "air board"; sounds like a scooter or something.

[@WinsomeJohnny]

Insightful perspective from a master musician.

[@aprilcottrell8880]

I just saw this... my Grandmom bought me one when I was 11 years old! Loved it!!!

[@Kelpy]

so wonderful, thank you, for explaining how to get those different sounds, harmonica/harp, gypsy Paris ( that's what I noticed first, like accordion), and the Sax, with the throat growl. Super! Merci!

[@626postie]

This is really a cool insightful interview. A real gem and a rarity in this day and age. Thanks for sharing Howard!

[@elijahbowers1]

I loved hearing him talk about it. So interesting.

[@Posijax]

Love you Jon...

[@jacquelinebrewer3643]

My boy Jon Batiste! I love him & Suleika!!!!

[@twhobie]

Excellent!

[@TheLokiBiz]

1:43

[@SuperDeeDuper100]

Great video!

[@NinjaGurlPower]

Rly cool

[@gonzalollache7306]

Epic

[@fredericoofederal]

i cant breath!