Jazz Music Legend’s Unique Style Inspired a Generation of Musicians
Reinhardt was a guitarist who became famous in Paris in the 1930s and 1940s for his unique style of jazz music. “He was the grandfather of gypsy jazz. He basically invented gypsy jazz,” said Deanna Knight, who has been chanteuse for the band since 2002. Knight’s comments reflect the enduring popularity of Reinhardt’s music. Despite passing away in 1953, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Knight’s band, the Hot Club of Mars, will pay tribute to Reinhardt’s memory by performing at Knox United Church on April 25. The concert will be a reunion show after Knight’s two-year hiatus, spent working on a solo album called Every Little Spark. The band also includes Don Kellet, Joe Bouchier, Mark Dowding, Tom Neville and Michael Dunn — a world-renowned luthier and B.C.’s “grand daddy of gypsy jazz”. Reinhardt’s famous band, the Hot Club of France, inspired numerous “hot clubs” all over the world, playing their own take on gypsy jazz and gypsy swing to this very day. His music can be recognized for the way it “chugs”, according to Knight. “Everything kind of chugs along and it’s very happy, upbeat, danceable music,” she added. Reinhardt spent his youth travelling through France and Belgium, where he learned to play the violin, guitar and banjo. A fire left him without the use of two fingers on his left hand, but the injury did little to hinder his talent for the guitar. In 1934, he co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France. One major influence he made on jazz was to improvise his solos at a time when guitarists mostly played chorded solos, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. The band’s repertoire goes beyond swing, and includes bossa, tango, waltz, contemporary and chosen originals. The Vancouver-based Hot Club of Mars will play second, after an opening set by String Fever, which features Neville (violin), Alan Medcalf (guitar), Michael Anderson (guitar and keys) and Kosma Busheikin (bass). String Fever is a four piece acoustic string ensemble that plays a combination of European and North American music influenced by popular, jazz, folk and other traditions. The concert at Knox United Church will take place on April 25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the music starts at 7 p.m. The church is located at 345 Pym St. Key Facts About Django Reinhardt:
- Reinhardt was a guitarist who became famous in Paris in the 1930s and 1940s for his unique style of jazz music.
- He was the grandfather of gypsy jazz and invented the style.
- The Quintette du Hot Club de France was co-founded by Reinhardt in 1934.
- Reinhardt was known for his ability to improvise solos on the guitar.
- His music is characterized by its happy, upbeat, and danceable qualities.
Django Reinhardt’s impact on the music world cannot be overstated. He was a true innovator and his influence can still be felt today. The concert at Knox United Church will be a wonderful tribute to Reinhardt’s memory and a celebration of his music. It will be a night to remember, with the Hot Club of Mars and String Fever taking the stage to perform their unique takes on gypsy jazz and acoustic music. The event promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers, with a unique combination of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Concert Details
| Concert Date: | April 25 |
| Concert Time: | 7 p.m. |
| Doors Open: | 6:30 p.m. |
| Location: | Knox United Church, 345 Pym St. |
What to Expect
- A night of music featuring the Hot Club of Mars and String Fever.
- A celebration of Django Reinhardt’s legacy and music.
- A unique combination of traditional and contemporary sounds.
- A wonderful tribute to Reinhardt’s memory.
Get Involved
- Join us at Knox United Church on April 25 to experience the magic of gypsy jazz.
- Support local musicians and their music.
- Be a part of a unique and unforgettable event.
Important Information
- The concert is open to all ages.
- There will be no admission charge.
- Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Quote from Deanna Knight
“
Django Reinhardt is my hero, I admire his talent and his dedication to his craft.
news is a contributor at JazzyMood. We are committed to providing well-researched, accurate, and valuable content to our readers.
You May Also Like
