Collection: DJANGO REINHARDT: THE JAZZ HERITAGE SOCIETY RECORDINGS

Jean "Django" Reinhardt remains one of jazz's most revered and unique figures, a largely self-taught Romani-French guitarist whose virtuosity redefined the instrument's role in the genre. Born in Belgium, Reinhardt spent his youth in Romani encampments near Paris, mastering the banjo-guitar.


His trajectory dramatically altered in 1928 when a caravan fire severely burned his left hand, paralyzing his ring and pinky fingers. Doctors advised amputation, but Reinhardt refused. Through sheer determination, he developed an entirely new, revolutionary fretting technique utilizing primarily his index and middle fingers for solos, while using the injured fingers for chord work. This adversity forged a style characterized by dazzling speed, intricate arpeggios, chromatic runs, and a distinct vibrato.


In the early 1930s, Reinhardt co-founded the legendary Quintette du Hot Club de France with violinist Stéphane Grappelli. Their all-string lineup (featuring three guitars, violin, and bass) created a unique European jazz sound – "Jazz Manouche" or "Gypsy Jazz." Their recordings, including iconic tracks like "Minor Swing" and "Nuages," blended American swing rhythms with Romani folk melodies and dazzling improvisation, achieving international acclaim.


Reinhardt continued performing through WWII in Paris and briefly toured the US with Duke Ellington post-war. Despite dying relatively young from a stroke at 43, Django Reinhardt's innovative technique, compositional genius, and triumphant spirit cemented his legacy. He remains a profound influence on guitarists across genres, celebrated as the originator of Gypsy Jazz and a true pioneer of jazz guitar.