Gypsy jazz, also known as “jazz manouche,” is a genre that has captivated musicians and audiences for decades. At the heart of this musical style is the guitar, played in a way that brings the essence of both the Roma people’s tradition and the innovations of jazz. The most influential figure in this genre is none other than Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt, whose musical virtuosity set the tone for future generations. This article explores the influence of Reinhardt on the Gypsy jazz guitar, specifically focusing on the Excelsior guitars that were instrumental to his sound.
Who Was Django Reinhardt?
The Early Life of a Virtuoso
Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt, born Jean Reinhardt on January 23, 1910, in Belgium, was of Romani descent. His family was part of a community of Romani people known for their musical traditions. Reinhardt’s early exposure to music came through his relatives, who played traditional Roma instruments like the violin and accordion. His natural talent became apparent at a young age, and by 12, he was already playing the banjo and guitar in cafés and dance halls.
The Accident That Shaped His Style
At the age of 18, Reinhardt’s career almost ended when a fire severely burned his left hand. The accident left him with only partial use of his third and fourth fingers. Despite this challenge, Reinhardt developed a unique playing style that allowed him to overcome the limitations, focusing on rapid single-note melodies and chords played with only two functional fingers. This adversity arguably pushed him to innovate the signature sound that would define Gypsy jazz guitar.
The Gypsy Jazz Guitar: Unique Sound and Playstyle
Rhythm and Swing
The distinctive style of Gypsy jazz guitar is immediately recognizable due to its rhythmic “la pompe” (the pump), a driving, percussive rhythm that underpins the melody. This technique mimics the sound of a drum kit in a typical jazz band but is performed entirely on the guitar, giving the genre its infectious swing. Unlike other forms of jazz, Gypsy jazz tends to rely heavily on string instruments, with guitars and violins taking center stage.
Solo Technique
In addition to rhythm, Reinhardt’s soloing technique was revolutionary. His two-finger technique produced rapid arpeggios and scale runs, contributing to his highly expressive, almost vocal-like phrasing. This technique came to define the Gypsy jazz solo sound and has influenced generations of guitarists in and beyond the genre.
The Excelsior Guitar: A Key to Django’s Sound
The Importance of the Guitar in Gypsy Jazz
For a genre as guitar-centric as Gypsy jazz, the choice of guitar is crucial. Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt famously played a variety of guitars throughout his career, but the Excelsior guitars stood out due to their sound quality and craftsmanship. These guitars, often handcrafted by renowned luthiers, had a distinct resonance that matched the driving rhythm and agile soloing of Reinhardt’s playing style.
The Features of the Excelsior Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt
The Excelsior guitars played by Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt were known for their archtop design, a feature that made them louder and more resonant, perfect for acoustic performances. The top of the guitar was typically made from spruce wood, while the back and sides were crafted from maple, giving the guitar both warmth and brightness in its tonal qualities. The large body size also contributed to the guitar’s robust sound, essential for Reinhardt’s music that often had to compete with other stringed instruments like violins and upright bass.
Another key feature was the guitar’s action—the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Reinhardt preferred a higher action, which contributed to his ability to play with great articulation and volume. Combined with his finger technique, this gave the Excelsior Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt a distinctive, powerful sound that defined the genre.
The Influence of Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt
Inspiring Generations of Musicians
Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt music left an indelible mark on Gypsy jazz, influencing not only his contemporaries but also future generations of guitarists. Musicians like Bireli Lagrene, Stochelo Rosenberg, and Tchavolo Schmitt have carried on the tradition of Gypsy jazz guitar, and many of them cite Reinhardt as their primary influence. His contributions have extended beyond Gypsy jazz, affecting jazz guitarists of all styles, as well as players in other genres.
Evolution of Gypsy Jazz Guitar Techniques
Reinhardt’s groundbreaking techniques are studied and replicated by musicians around the world. His unique use of diminished chords, chromatic runs, and syncopation are now staples of Gypsy jazz guitar. His ability to weave rapid scales and melodies into a cohesive and expressive whole continues to be the gold standard for improvisation in the genre.
In the decades following his death, Gypsy jazz festivals, workshops, and online communities have popped up globally, keeping Reinhardt’s legacy alive. The Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt, with its distinctive build and sound, remains a coveted instrument among aficionados.
Modern Gypsy Jazz Guitars and Excelsior’s Legacy
The Rise of Selmer-Maccaferri Guitars
Though the Excelsior guitars played a significant role in Reinhardt’s sound, another guitar brand, Selmer-Maccaferri, eventually became synonymous with Gypsy jazz. These guitars, made famous by Reinhardt in the latter part of his career, had unique D-shaped soundholes and a bright, cutting tone. They have since become the guitar of choice for many modern Gypsy jazz players. However, the Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt remain an iconic representation of the genre’s roots.
Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt in Today’s Market
For collectors and guitar enthusiasts, owning an original Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt is akin to owning a piece of musical history. These instruments are rare and often fetch high prices at auctions. However, many modern guitar makers have begun creating replicas of the Excelsior guitars, paying homage to the craftsmanship that contributed to Reinhardt’s legendary sound.
How to Play Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt
Mastering the La Pompe Rhythm
The first step to mastering Gypsy jazz guitar is learning the “la pompe” rhythm. Start by practicing simple major and minor chord progressions, emphasizing the percussive nature of your strumming. Focus on alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, keeping the rhythm consistent and driving.
Soloing in Django’s Style
To solo like Django, focus on arpeggios and scales that emphasize chromaticism and syncopation. Reinhardt often used diminished arpeggios to create tension and resolution in his solos. Practice playing arpeggios with both speed and precision, keeping in mind the importance of phrasing.
Recreating Django’s Unique Sound
To fully replicate Django’s sound, it helps to use a guitar with similar characteristics to the Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt model. If you can’t find an original or replica, look for guitars with archtop designs and a higher action. Strings also play a role; heavier gauge strings are more suited to Gypsy jazz playing.
FAQs
Q: What is Gypsy jazz?
A: Gypsy jazz, also known as “jazz manouche,” is a style of jazz music that originated in France in the 1930s. It blends elements of traditional Romani music with jazz, and it is primarily played with string instruments, especially the guitar.
Q: Why is Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt legend?
A: Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt is considered a legend because of his innovative playing style, which he developed after a fire left him with only partial use of two fingers on his left hand. Despite this, he became one of the greatest guitarists in jazz history.
Q: What made the Excelsior Django Reinhardt guitar unique?
A: The Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt had an archtop design, which made it louder and more resonant, ideal for acoustic performances. It was made from high-quality woods like spruce and maple, which contributed to its warm, bright tone.
Q: How can I learn to play Gypsy jazz guitar?
A: To learn Gypsy jazz guitar, start by mastering the “la pompe” rhythm and practicing arpeggios and scales. Listening to Django Reinhardt’s recordings and studying his techniques are essential steps in understanding the genre.
Q: What is “la pompe” rhythm?
A: “La pompe” is a percussive guitar rhythm technique that drives the swing feel in Gypsy jazz. It involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, providing a consistent, upbeat tempo that propels the music forward.
Q: What are some modern players influenced by Django Reinhardt?
A: Modern guitarists like Bireli Lagrene, Stochelo Rosenberg, and Tchavolo Schmitt are all heavily influenced by Django Reinhardt and continue to carry on the Gypsy jazz tradition.
Conclusion
The Gipsy Jazz Guitar Excelsior Django Reinhardt is more than just an instrument; it is a symbol of Gypsy jazz history and the spirit of overcoming adversity. Django Reinhardt’s influence on the genre is unparalleled, and his unique playing style, shaped by both his physical limitations and his immense talent, continues to inspire musicians today. Whether you’re a fan of Gypsy jazz or a guitarist looking to dive into this fascinating style, understanding the importance of the Excelsior guitar and Reinhardt’s contributions will deepen your appreciation for the genre.
