“buoyant rhythm, blinding technique, solid entertainment!” – New York Times
Django Reinhardt’s unmistakable cool and jumping joie de vivre have made him an icon. Many guitar luminaries cite his inspiration, including guitar greats Carlos Santana and Eric Clapton. Jimi Hendrix named his Band of Gypsys in tribute to Reinhardt. Willie Nelson adopted his influence in playing country swing.
The star musicians of the Django Festival All-Stars have grown into a brilliantly cohesive group. They have performed at top concert halls and festivals to standing ovations. They have wowed audiences in venues across North America. They’ve played the Kennedy Center, New York’s Birdland Jazz Club and Carnegie Hall, the San Francisco Jazz Festival, and the Newport Jazz Festival.
The group’s music transports listeners to Paris in the 1920s and ’30s. It was there that gitane music filled the air and Django was king. The All-Stars bring Reinhardt’s music into the 21st century. They honor traditions and standards while adding their own interpretations, arrangements, and original compositions. They swing like crazy and will break your heart with a ballad.
Led for years by guitar master Dorado Schmitt, the All-Stars are now fronted by Dorado’s son, Samson. Samson has been playing professionally since he was twelve years old and has several recordings to his credit. Flanked by the other superb musicians in this group, the future of Django’s music is in good hands indeed!
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. The All-Stars celebrate the traditions while adding their own interpretations, arrangements, and original compositions with stunning virtuosity.
Samson Schmitt, lead guitar, vocals
Pierre Blanchard, violin
Ludovic Beier, accordion and accordina
Antonio Licusati, bass
Francko Mehrstein, rhythm guitar
Recommended for Fans of John Jorgenson Quintet, Stephane Wrembel, Biréli Lagrène and The Rosenberg Trio.
LEARN MORE: https://djangofestivalallstars.com/
