Gypsy jazz (French jazz manouche) is a distinctive acoustic style born in Paris in the 1930s. Its creator was the legendary guitarist of Roma origin Django Reinhardt, who, despite a left hand maimed in a fire, developed an inimitable virtuoso technique.
Together with the violinist Stéphane Grappelli he founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France, whose sound was built exclusively on string instruments — guitars, violin, and double bass, without drums or winds. The style is characterised by rapid guitar solos, a springy “chopping” accompaniment (la pompe), and a blend of swing with the melody of the European and Roma traditions. Gypsy jazz is alive to this day: festivals are held across Europe every year, and new generations of guitarists honour Reinhardt's legacy as a summit of acoustic playing.
