Monkton Arts is delighted to host the Gypsy Jazz Festival, a week-long event dedicated to celebrating the enchanting music of Django Reinhardt and Stephan Grappelli.
As the sun kissed shores of Ryde embrace the melody of strings, join Monkton Arts for an unforgettable experience that transcends borders and generations.
This cultural celebration aims to bridge generations and geographical borders by showcasing both local and internationally acclaimed musicians. Each performer will pay tribute to the rich musical heritage of Gypsy Jazz, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable experience for attendees.
Star performances lined up
One of the festival’s highlights includes performances by the Harry Diplock Trio. Following the release of his debut album, guitarist Harry Diplock will be joined by some of the UK’s most dynamic jazz talents. Their music presents a modern interpretation of traditional acoustic jazz, deeply influenced by the Parisian jazz scene and the legendary Django Reinhardt.
The Trio plans to deliver a mix of original pieces and classic arrangements from Reinhardt. They will be supported by a remarkable rhythm section comprising Isle of Wight’s own Sol Grimshaw (pictured below) and Pete Thomas on bass, promising a thrilling set for jazz enthusiasts.
London Django Collective to perform
Another must-see act at the festival is the London Django Collective, spearheaded by violinist Matt Holborn and guitarist Harry Diplock. The group was formed with the intention of celebrating Django Reinhardt’s musical legacy within London’s vibrant music scene. They will be playing a variety of pieces, ranging from Hot Club De France quintet tunes to new compositions inspired by Django, along with some standards from the Great American Songbook.
The ensemble features a line-up of top UK musicians including Matt Holborn on violin, Harry Diplock and Sol Grimshaw on guitars, and Pete Thomas handling the bass duties.
Exploring Romani influences with Matt Holborn
Apart from his performances with the London Django Collective, Matt Holborn will also present a concert exploring the influences of Romani violin styles on his music. Known for his commitment to jazz education and his popular Jazz Violin Podcast, Holborn’s set will include an exploration of Romanian gypsy music and the French Gitan gypsy music of Matelo Ferret.
The concert will feature a variety of performances, from solo violin pieces to duets, providing a deep dive into the diverse influences that shape Holborn’s music. This segment promises to offer a rich, educational experience to the festival attendees.
For more information
For those interested in attending the Gypsy Jazz Festival, additional details and a full schedule of events are available on Events OnTheWight and Monkton Arts websites.
The festival promises to be a cornerstone event for jazz lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike, set against the scenic beauty of Ryde’s coastal landscape.
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