Quintette Du Hot Club De France

Pioneering French Gypsy Jazz Ensemble

The Quintette du Hot Club de France was a pioneering group in the genre of gypsy jazz, co-founded by guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli in the 1930s. The ensemble was among the first to put the guitar in the forefront as a lead instrument in a jazz setting, with Reinhardt's innovative technique and compositions becoming highly influential. The group's music was characterized by its swinging rhythm, virtuosic solos, and a blend of Romani music with American jazz. During its existence, the Quintette played a significant role in popularizing this style of jazz throughout Europe and beyond. Their performances were marked by improvisation and a unique sound that combined acoustic guitars, violin, and double bass. Despite the challenges of World War II, which led to a temporary disbandment and the members going their separate ways, their legacy continued to grow posthumously as their recordings have been celebrated by subsequent generations of jazz enthusiasts.