The Django Festival Allstars bring the music of the legendary gypsy jazz guitarist, Django Reinhardt, fully into the twenty-first century. Their unique, high-energy performances pay tribute to Reinhardt, who is considered one of the greatest guitar players of all time.
Reinhardt’s driving, swinging style became known as “hot jazz,” and it continues to grow in popularity throughout the world. Django’s unmistakable cool and jumpin’ ole de vivre have made him an icon for an unlikely range of luminaries from Carlos Santana to Eric Clapton; Jimi Hendrix named his “big band of gypsies” in tribute, and Willie Nelson adopted his influence in “country-swing.”
The Django Festival All-Stars have been developing over 20 years and grew into a brilliantly cohesive group of star musicians who have taken America by storm, performing at top concert halls and festivals with standing ovations. The music speaks of Paris in the 20s and 30s when “gitane” music filled the air, in the cafés, the streets, in the countryside, a romantic Paris with lovers, campfires, a time of Montmartre, la belle époque, le boudon café, café au lait, luscious pastry, and a great glass of wine. The Allstars honor Reinhardt’s traditions while adding their own interpretations, arrangements, and original compositions with stunning virtuosity.
The group features: Samson Schmitt on lead guitar; Pierre Blanchard on violin; Ludovic Beier on accordion and accordina; DouDou Cuillerier on rhythm guitar; and Antonio Licusati on bass.
