Summer may be winding down, but the music is heating up at The Riff Corner! Prepare to be swept away by the intoxicating sounds of Django Reinhardt and the vibrant energy of Gypsy Jazz at The Riff Corner’s spectacular end-of-summer celebration.
For four unforgettable days, from Thursday, 26th September at 7.00 p.m. to Sunday, 29th September at 11.00 p.m. The Riff Corner will be transformed into a haven for Gypsy Jazz enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or simply a lover of toe-tapping tunes, this event promises an immersive experience you won’t want to miss.
Picture this: jamming sessions from noon onwards filling the venue with infectious rhythms, musicians of all levels coming together to create spontaneous magic. If the weather permits, the music will spill outdoors, turning the surrounding area into a lively open-air festival. And the best part? It’s all absolutely free!
Bring your instrument and join the jams, grab a drink, watch, listen, play along – the choice is yours. As the sun sets each evening, a different Gypsy Jazz band will take the stage, sharing their impressive abilities and passion for this exciting music.
But that’s not all! The Riff Corner is offering two exclusive Gypsy Jazz workshops on Saturday, September 28th. Whether you’re a guitarist or violinist, seize this opportunity to learn from the talented David Jones and Clare Mactaggart. Spaces are limited, so be sure to contact them directly to reserve your spot for £15 and unlock the secrets of Gypsy Jazz. djonesguitar@outlook.com and clare@claremactaggart.com
Gather your friends and get ready to immerse yourself in the irresistible spirit of Gypsy Jazz. This is your chance to celebrate the music, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and create memories that will last long after the final notes fade.
THE PERFORMANCE LINEUP
Thursday evening: GITANO from Bristol
A Gypsy Jazz Fusion
Gitano, a dynamic trio, breathes new life into the Gypsy Jazz tradition, drawing inspiration from the legendary Django Reinhardt and the exceptional talent of the Rosenberg Trio. Featuring Graham J Nicholls’ captivating lead guitar, Damian Pope’s soulful vocals and rhythmic guitar, and Charlie Rose’s versatile violin and keys, Gitano’s captivating performance weaves together Gypsy Jazz standards and fiery instrumentals, with surprising detours into country and blues, showcasing their remarkable versatility.
From Acoustic Club to Gypsy Jazz Fusion
Gitano’s journey began in the humble setting of an acoustic club in Clevedon circa 1998. Damian, co-running the weekly session, welcomed Graham to the stage one evening. A shared passion for Gypsy Jazz ignited, leading to the acquisition of Gypsy-style guitars and the crafting of an initial setlist.
Their musical synergy deepened, drawing in Charlie, a frequent collaborator with Graham. And thus, Gitano was born. While their lineup – featuring a violin/keys instead of the traditional double bass – deviates from the standard Gypsy Jazz ensemble, it’s this unique instrumentation that infuses their sound with an innovative edge, setting them apart in the vibrant world of Gypsy Jazz.
FRIDAY EVENING: LA VIE EN ROSE (EXETER)
La Vie En Rose: A Gypsy Jazz Renaissance
La Vie en Rose is not just a band; it’s a musical tapestry woven from diverse threads. Classical, traditional jazz, rock, Western swing, blues, and roots music all converge in their shared passion for the fiery swing, romantic waltzes, Latin beats, and lilting melodies of Gypsy Jazz.
Meet the Musicians
Leading UK gypsy jazz guitarist David Jones is a versatile musician with a career spanning rock bands, musical theatre, and teaching. His passion lies in Gypsy Jazz, where he’s performed alongside top artists like Lollo Meier and Bertrand Le Guillou. He’s a featured performer at festivals like March Manouche and is endorsed by JWC Guitars.
Rebecca Willson (violin) is a versatile musician passionate about diverse musical styles. Holding both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in music, she’s equally at home performing solo piano concerts, contributing to the elegant sounds of The Obligato String Quartet, or adding her fiddle skills to lively country and western swing bands. She’s even studied the unique techniques of Gypsy Jazz violin and shares her love of music by teaching the Kodály approach.
Laurie Light (guitar) has a lifelong love affair with swing and jazz, sparked in his youth by listening to the radio and his father’s singing. He picked up the guitar as a teenager and hasn’t looked back since, playing and singing a wide range of music from Blind Blake to Jimmy Durante.
Yann Mahdjoub (double bass) is a highly respected upright bass player with a strong background in hillbilly and western swing music. His powerful and rhythmic playing style has been featured on multiple albums and tours, and his experience in these genres translates seamlessly into the driving energy of Gypsy Jazz.
Nick White (clarinet) is a classically trained musician with a diverse and impressive career. He has performed with renowned groups like the Northern Ballet Theatre Orchestra and the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, as well as more unconventional ensembles like Zippo’s Circus Band. He’s also a skilled arranger and teacher, and currently holds the lead alto saxophonist position with the celebrated Big Chris Barber Band.
SATURDAY EVENING: HOT FLAMINGO (YORKSHIRE)
Get Ready to Swing with Hot Flamingo!
Prepare to be swept off your feet by Hot Flamingo, a fabulous female-led Gypsy Jazz ensemble from Sheffield that’s bringing the heat to this fabulous Gypsy Jazz Extravaganza! With Django Reinhardt-inspired hot swing, powerful vocals from the captivating Molly Amour, and driving rockabilly and Gypsy guitars from JD England and Antoine Gourdon, this talented outfit is guaranteed to get your heart racing and your feet moving.
Charlie Fothergill’s soulful clarinet and Kate Whittaker’s grooving double bass lay down an irresistible rhythm, while special guests Leen de Keijzer (accordion) from the Netherlands and Bruno Gil (jazz guitar) from France add an extra layer of international flair.
Expect high-energy, get-up-and-dance music that’ll transport you to the heart of a Parisian jazz club. Weather permitting, the party will spill outside to the courtyard, so come ready to swing the night away!
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Hot Flamingo’s infectious energy and undeniable talent on day three of our weekend-long celebration of Gypsy Jazz!
SUNDAY EVENING: CLARE MACTAGGART QUARTET (BRISTOL).
Claire’s Musical Odyssey: From Busking Teen to Virtuoso Violinist
It was a serendipitous moment over three decades ago that set Claire on an extraordinary musical journey. Spotted busking as a teenager, she was invited into a recording studio, a dream come true for a young musician yearning to break free from the constraints of the classical world.
Since then, Claire has been fortunate enough to collaborate with a diverse range of exceptional artists, both on stage and in the studio. Each project has offered its unique flavour, showcasing Claire’s versatility and willingness to embrace any style that fits the moment. At times, she even incorporates electronic pedals to expand the sonic possibilities of her instrument, pushing the boundaries of traditional violin playing.
A long-time admirer of country and bluegrass, Claire’s current passion lies in the realm of jazz violin. Under the tutelage of Dutch maestro Tim Kliphuis, she draws inspiration from the legendary Stephane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt, channelling the vibrant energy of 1930s Parisian Gypsy Jazz.
From her early days as a busking teenager to her current pursuit of jazz mastery, Claire’s musical journey is a testament to her boundless curiosity, adaptability, and unwavering love for the violin.
Claire’s band consists of herself, Alex Bishop, Paul Gadd and Tom Allen on violin, guitars and double bass respectively.
ABOUT THE RIFF CORNER
The Riff Corner is more than just a live music venue and bar – it’s a cultural hub, a testament to Clevedon’s thriving arts scene, and a unique experience reminiscent of a prohibition-era speakeasy.
Opened in September 2021, The Riff Corner is the brainchild of lifelong musician Steve Treble and his business partner Sylvie Dagaillier, who also runs the successful Bristol Fringe live music bar in Clifton Village. Steve Treble, a well-known figure in the Clevedon music community and owner of the Treble Rock guitar shop in Clifton, transformed a former office supplies unit, which itself had a rich history as a temperance cafe in the late 1800s, into this vibrant music venue.
The Riff Corner quickly became a hit, expanding its initial five-nights-a-week schedule to seven due to popular demand. Its success can be attributed not only to its captivating ambience and diverse live music programme but also to the passion and dedication of its owners. Steve Treble, with his deep roots in the music industry, and Sylvie Dagaillier, with her experience running a successful music venue, have created a space that resonates with both musicians and music lovers alike.
The venue’s history adds another layer of intrigue. The building’s past as a temperance cafe, where alcohol was once prohibited, creates a fascinating juxtaposition with its current incarnation as a lively bar and music venue. This historical context, combined with the speakeasy-style decor, transports visitors back in time, creating a truly unique and immersive experience.
From local talent to international acts, from jazz and blues to folk and rock, The Riff Corner offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences. With its commitment to supporting the arts, nurturing local talent, and providing a welcoming space for all, The Riff Corner has firmly established itself as an integral part of Clevedon’s cultural landscape.
Here’s the link for you to explore the Riff Corner yourselves. Wishing the team all the best for what promises to be a magical weekend of Seaside Swing.