GRANDE ABSENTE and AIR FRANCE
present
The Return of “The Young Lions of Gypsy Jazz”
DJANGO REINHARDT NY FESTIVAL
June 25 – 30 @ Birdland
THE DJANGO REINHARDT NY FESTIVAL returns with “THE YOUNG LIONS OF GYPSY JAZZ” headed by the very talented guitarist SAMSON SCHMITT, son of legendary gypsy guitarist/violinist DORADO SCHMITT.
“The greatest jazz show in town” says Will Friedwald of The Wall Street Journal.
With the immortal Django Reinhardt as its life spring, the 14-year old festival as its central nervous system, the Django festival brings the legendary Gypsy guitarist’s legacy fully into the 21st century. Hot JAZZ at its sweetest and meanest with a full palette of Jazz expression on loving display. The festival is produced by Pat Philips & Ettore Stratta.
As SAMSON SCHMITT grew up alongside his dad on the Birdland stage, it was time to move on and break out on his own. He heads the pack with the great Parisien accordionist/accordina player LUDOVIC BEIER on one side and virtuoso violinist PIERRE BLANCHARD on the other. The new addition to the band is the very talented rhythm guitarist DOUDOU CUILLERIER who brings the crowd to its feet when he ‘breaks out into scat singing’. All from France, one American holds it together with his swinging bass, BRIAN TORFF. The very talented guitarist KRUNO from Philadelphia will be a Special Guest.
Other top Guest Appearances: June 25 & 26: Peter Beets/jazz pianist from Holland
27: David Langlois /washboards
28: Anat Cohen /sax&clarinet
29 & 30: Edmar Castaneda/Jazz harp
It’s a rip-roaring event, now in its 14th year with a new CD just released titled DJANGO FESTIVAL ALLSTARS on Three’s A Crowd Records. Each of the artists from France, above mentioned, are part of the recording. Interesting to note, the band exists only ‘for America’, Birdland, and the tours that surround the Festival appearances. Once over, they go their separate ways with the exception of Samson and Ludovic who perform together occasionally in France. So it becomes a great reunion on the Birdland stage filled with smiles and joy! One might call it a lovefest!
Much of the music will be from the new CD, many originals along with well-known Django compositions and standards. Guitar virtuosity is naturally on display alongside the enormously talented musicians bringing the audience to its feet.
Participating sponsors: VERIZON, RD WRIGHT INC.
John and Joan D’Addario Found., John Pearse Strings
@ Birdland
(See tour schedule at www.djangobirdland.com)
315 W. 44th Street
Shows: 8:30 & 11:00 pm
Reservations: 212-581-3080 or
Full dinner menu – Parking nearby
