Guitar
Julien Cattiaux returns this year as our Rhythm Guitar Specialist and will be the rhythm player in the Romain Vuillemin Quartet as well as Django Symphonique.
If you’ve been playing Gypsy jazz for more than a week or two, you know that the fine art of rhythm guitar is an all important part of that special sound. Elegant and efficient—a couple of must-have traits for anyone looking to excel in the rhythm chair—Julien’s tasteful accompaniment has landed him gigs with (I’ll pause to take a deep breath), Tchavolo Schmitt, Romane, Samson Schmitt, Noé Reinhardt, Rocky Gresset, Antoine Boyer, and Raphaël Fays. (That’ll do, thanks!) Here’s another chance to learn from one of the most in-demand rhythm players on the Paris scene today.
(Sébastien Giniaux et Julien Cattiaux – I’ll see you in my dreams)
Here he is playing with our featured band this year, Django Symphonique. Notice the lush beautiful chords in the beginning and the smooth tempo change to a light, yet exciting medium swing on this classic Django composition, Vous Et Moi:
Those of you who worked with him the last time he was here know that he teaches as he learned, without a lot of music theory. Instead, he prioritizes good (and honest!) listening — making sure you don’t get so wrapped up in the details that you forget that the whole point of this is to make good music. We’re lucky to have him on board again to pass along the wisdom he’s accumulated over the years.
(An interview with Julien; English translation available by clicking the CC icon, then changing the Setting to English)