Belle Epoque Ballad – J.Lhommet, P.Mercier

To whom who is going to Paris Olympic and not only to Paris!

 Gypsy music in Paris is a vibrant and celebrated genre, with Gypsy Jazz being a prominent style associated with the city. Gypsy Jazz combines elements of traditional Romani music, American jazz, and swing. It features variety of tempos, virtuosic improvisation, and a distinct rhythm guitar technique known as “la pompe.” The instrumentation typically includes lead and rhythm guitars, violin, double bass, and occasionally clarinet and accordion. The emphasis is on the collective energy and interaction among the musicians.

Gypsy Jazz emerged in the 1930s and is closely associated with the Romani community in Paris, particularly through the groundbreaking work of guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stéphane Grappelli. Gypsy Jazz in Paris has a unique charm and a distinctive sound that has greatly influenced the city’s musical landscape. This genre remains influential to this day. It continues to be celebrated and performed in various venues, festivals, and jam sessions throughout Paris, perpetuating the legacy of the Romani community and their significant contributions to the music scene. That’s why we decided to select and publish new recordings of Gypsy Jazz.