Personalities | Stéphane Grappelli | Thirties | Jazz & Blues
(Violin, piano, 1908–97)
Largely self-taught, Stéphane Grappelli’s virtuosity came to the attention of the world in 1934 through records with Django Reinhardt and The Quintet of the Hot Club of France. His refined sound was decorative on ballads but could push with an alert and driving attack of formidable power on jazz standards such as ‘Tiger Rag’, ‘Shine’ and ‘I’ve Found A New Baby’.
In Paris and London Grappelli recorded with many visiting American players, including violinist Eddie South in 1937. Their repertoire, which ranged from Gershwin to Bach, produced some of the most dazzling and intriguing violin duets ever recorded. The Quintet never appeared in America, although it was heard on several radio broadcasts. Grappelli lived in London during and after the war, but his reputation faded. In 1969 George Wein brought him to the Newport Jazz Festival for his American debut. Still at the top of his form, he continued to tour and record for another 28 years.
Styles & Forms | Thirties | Jazz & Blues
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