Gypsy Tears

Called the "Gypsy Jazz King," guitarist Django Reinhardt was not only a lyrical, tasteful and sprightly soloist; he could be a very supportive and complementary accompanist as well. His playing was amazing on its own and almost unbelievable considering the setback that occurred early in his playing career. When he...

By Mark Hughes

January 25, 2007

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Called the "Gypsy Jazz King," guitarist Django Reinhardt was not only a lyrical, tasteful and sprightly soloist; he could be a very supportive and complementary accompanist as well. His playing was amazing on its own and almost unbelievable considering the setback that occurred early in his playing career. When he was 18, Reinhardt's trailer caught fire and he was severely burned, searing two fingers on his left hand together. Luckily for us, he was able to invent a new two-fingered chord technique, which allowed him to continue playing and eventually achieve musical immortality; even Les Paul once called him "the greatest guitar player that ever lived." For these reasons and more Arts Fifth Avenue presents Django Reinhardt FW Festival '07, "3 Nights of Film, Live Music & French Ambience" dedicated to the gypsy jazz pioneer. Catch it Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Arts Fifth Avenue, 1628 5th Ave. in Fort Worth. Tickets are $15, or $30 for all three nights. Call 817-923-9500 or visit artsfifthavenue.com for more info.
Jan. 26-28

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