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Show he came to the US to tour with Duke Ellington, who had heard him several years earlier in France and recognized his genius. Reinhardt's tour of the US was by no means a success. He was uncomfortable with the language, and his illiteracy hampered him further. He returned to Europe disenchanted with America and Americans, despite warm receptions from audiences throughout the country . . In 1950 he tired of playing the guitar and began painting. After two years of painting, playing billiards and fishing, his interest in playing was rekindled. While making plans for another tour, he died of a cerebral hemorrhage in May of 1953. In his short life he left us plenty. Reading about Django is one thing. To really get a sense of what he's all about, try listening to a couple of his recordings that are fortunately available through remastering. I recommend Djangology 49 (BMG music, New York, NY) and a two CD set, Djangologie/USA (DRG Records, New York, NY). From these you can get a sense of what his playing is all about. For those of you unable to locate recordings, Wes Bowen on KUER FM 90 (program each night from 7-9 PM) is quite a Django fan and occasionally can honor requests. Sources: 1. Django Reinhardt Anthology, Transcribed and Edited by Mike Peters, Jewel Music Publishing Company. Distributed by Cherry Lane Music Co. Inc. PO Box 430, Chester NY 10573 (1984). 2. The Jazz Guitar, Maurice Summerfield, Hal Leonard Publishing Corp, Milwaukee WI 53213 (1978). 3. The Genius of Django Reinhardt, Jewel Music Publishing Co. New York NY 10022 (year unknown). 4. The Jazz Master Series.: Django Reinhardt by Stan Ayeroff. Amsco Publications, New York NY (1978). 5. The Guitar Style of Django Reinhardt & the Gypsies, Ian Cruickshank, Wise Publications, London (1989). TO ~I:COF!O A.COUSnc MU81C Gall him at Rosewood Recording Company . 801 375 5764 |
