PREVIEW: Celebrating The legacy of Django Reinhardt at The Linda
01/23 @ The Linda - WAMC Performing Arts Studio, Albany
Hot Club of Saratoga photo by Kiki Vassilakis
The Hot Club of Saratoga and The Linda-WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio are hosting the 2nd Annual Django Birthday Celebration, set to take place this Thursday, January 23. This special event will commemorate the 114th anniversary of the legendary guitarist and jazz innovator Django Reinhardt, and promises a night full of music, learning, and community spirit.
Reinhardt remains a towering figure in the music world, renowned for his transformative influence on jazz and guitar playing. The Hot Club of Saratoga has organized this celebration to capture and honor his exceptional artistry, bringing together musicians and enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening.
The highlight of the event will be a concert featuring a spirited performance by the Hot Club of Saratoga, who will take the stage before the acclaimed Rhythm Future Quartet. This talented group, comprised of Jason Anick (violin), Max O’Rourke and Henry Acker (guitars), and Greg Loughman (bass), is celebrated for their vibrant interpretations of Django’s music as well as their original compositions. Their energetic performances aim to keep the spirit of gypsy jazz alive and relevant in today’s musical landscape.
"I would have to count Hot Club of Saratoga as being probably the best thing that's happened to the local music scene in the last five years in Saratoga," Sarah Craig, the Executive Director of Caffe Lena, has said. That’s high praise indeed.
In addition to the concert, the event will also feature workshops led by the Quartet members. These sessions will offer participants the chance to dive into the techniques of gypsy jazz, exploring the nuances of guitar, violin, and string bass. Designed to inspire and educate, the workshops will foster a greater appreciation of Reinhardt's influential style and legacy.
As the evening unfolds, attendees will be invited to participate in an open jam session, promoting an atmosphere of musical collaboration and improvisation. Musicians of all skill levels are welcome to join in, celebrating Reinhardt's innovative contributions to music in a shared experience of creativity and camaraderie.
The Hot Club of Saratoga is dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of gypsy jazz and nurturing a vibrant community in upstate New York. This year’s Django Birthday Celebration is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Hot Club of Saratoga, The Linda, and Collar City Guitars.
Join in honoring the timeless legacy of Django Reinhardt and celebrating the vibrant gypsy jazz community. Come for the music, stay for the magic.
The 2nd Annual Django Birthday Celebration takes place this Thursday, January 23rd at The Linda – WAMC Performing Arts Studio in Albany. Workshops take place from 4:45-6:15, with doors at 6:30 for the 7:00 concert 7:00. The aforementioned jam takees place from 9:00-10:00. For tickets, click HERE!