Django Amsterdam causes another sensation, this year with a unique solo performance by award-winning British jazz guitarist Martin Taylor. His fingerstyle technique is being praised all over the world, just like his thrilling solo arrangements. He became known for his collaboration with legendary jazz violinist Stéphane Grappelli. Taylor was even compared to Grappelli’s earlier companion, Django Reinhardt, but his style is very much his own: melodic, harmonically rich and refined. 

Later this evening, the stage will be taken over by a duo who have performed sold-out gigs here: alto saxophonist Benjamin Herman, known among others as the leader of New Cool Collective, and guitarist Robin Nolan, expert of jazz manouche. Englishman Nolan was a good friend of George Harrison, whose iconic guitars he was allowed to play on his recent album For the Love of George. 

Django Amsterdam is dedicated to the birthday of guitar legend Django Reinhardt, the originator of gypsy jazz or swing manouche. This style of acoustic swing jazz became part of the Roma and Sinti culture thanks to Django, who’s generally considered one of the greatest guitar players of all time. For four days the concerts on our stage will be complemented with sessions and performances at the café. The house band is the trio of guitarist Tessa Spaaij, known for her melodic and expressive style. Each evening she will set the tone with an introductory performance and a session after the concert. 

Martin Taylor guitar
Benjamin Herman alto sax, Robin Nolan guitar, Jan Brouwer guitar, Arnoud van den Berg double bass