The Freight swings like it’s never swung before when the Esprit de Django et Stephane Festival sets the stage sizzling with three nights of music and a free Saturday open house featuring workshops, performances, and a panel discussion inspired and influenced by the legendary jazz band, Quintette du Hot Club de France.  Fronted by gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt and virtuoso violinist Stephane Grappelli, the Paris-based combo revolutionized jazz in the 1930s and 40s by applying an irresistible, string-fueled propulsion to the more sedate big-band sound of the time.  This weekend’s festival showcases some modern heirs of Django and Stephane’s hot jazz sound, including festival house band George Cole & Eurocana who open all three nights of the festival, and pre-show entertainment in lobby from Douce Ambiance w/ Bobbi Nikles on Friday, Tangonero on Saturday, and Hot Club of Marin on Sunday.

Festival Events

Friday, January 25, 8pm showtime:

Hot Club of Cowtown

Saturday, January 26, noon - 4pm:

Esprit de Django et Stephane Festival Open House (Free)

• Panel on the lives of Grapelli and Reinhardt, 3:00 pm
  with David Grisman, David Balakrishnan, Andy Gilbert, and George Cole (moderator)

Hot Fiddle "How To" with Elana James, 11 am - 11:50 am and 12 pm - 12:50 pm
Dawg on Django with David Grisman, 1 pm - 1:50 pm
The Art of Swing Violin with Stephan Dudash, 1 pm - 1:50 pm and 2 pm - 2:50 pm
Swing Guitar with Whit Smith, 11 am - 11:50 am and 12 pm - 12:50 pm
Gypsy Jazz Guitar for Beginners, 1 pm - 1:50 pm and 2 pm - 2:50 pm

Saturday, January 26, 8pm showtime:

Turtle Island Quartet

Sunday, January 27, 8pm showtime:

David Grisman Sextet