Workers have recovered what was left of three pianos in Fats Domino’s Ninth Ward home, which was submerged in almost 10 feet of water when Hurricane Katrina caused a levee break near his neighborhood in August.
Sifting through the mold-covered interior of the house, a recovery crew with the Louisiana State Museum pulled out a black Steinway baby grand used by the famed musician for writing and practicing. They also recovered a white Steinway grand and electric Wurlitzer keyboard.
Museum officials are hoping the Domino family will donate the black Steinway baby grand for inclusion in a traveling exhibit about hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
“The negotiating process may take months, but it’s something we’re trying to work out with the family,” said Kacey Hill, the museum’s spokeswoman.
The exhibit will include remnants from the storms as well as rescue signs, pictures and oral histories, Hill said, adding that the museum is seeking additional funding and grants. She said she hopes the exhibit will be shown nationally, not just locally.
“We feel that it’s so important that whether this is six months from now or four years from now, people need to be reminded of what happened here so they don’t forget,” she said.
Domino’s family did not return a call for comment Wednesday evening.
Domino, 78, was an early rock & roll pioneer with such hits as “Ain’t that a Shame,” “I’m Walkin”’ and “Blueberry Hill.” Rescued from the rooftop of his home after Katrina struck, Domino recently released his first album in nearly two decades — to benefit New Orleans musicians impacted by the hurricane. Domino is scheduled to headline at this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.