In New Orleans, young Kit Latimer, who loves and plays the African-American music of the city, moves to Chicago with her architect father, George. Over the next several years, Kit discovers that the ragtime of her childhood has developed into jazz. Struggling coronet player Johnny Schumacher befriends Kit, who is arrested after her music incites a riot at a club. Upon release, the two form a band.
George Latimer
Johnny Schumacher
Kit Latimer
Steve Porter
Rex Tearbone
Connee Boswell
Paul Porter
Smiley Jackson
Ella Tearbone
Lillian
Paul Porter - as a Child
Kit Latimer - as a Child
Charlie Barnet
Benny Goodman
Harry James
Jack Jenney
Gene Krupa
Alvino Rey
Joe Venuti
Doakes (scenes deleted)
Spelvin (scenes deleted)