The New Orleans Jazz Festival starts in the US city ravaged by Hurricane Katrina last August.

Legendary folk-rock singer Bob Dylan opened the festival at an open-air racetrack which had been underwater during the hurricane.

New Orleans blues pianist Dr John entertained the crowds. The Jazz Festival takes place over two weekends on 10 different stages.

Organisers said tens of thousands attended the first day of concerts. More than 4,000 performers are expected to take part.

Grammy-winning singer and guitarist Keb' Mo performed on Friday. Other stars to play at the festival include Elvis Costello and Fats Domino.

The festival is part of the city's recovery from the hurricane in which 1,300 people died.

The festival embraces all forms of music from jazz, rock and blues to gospel.

New Orleans is a centre of musical heritage and many of the city's talented performers, including Mary Griffin, are taking part.

Early ticket sales are at 75% of last year's festival but the city's population is only half of what it was before the hurricane.