We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Django Reinhardt - Hold That Tiger
Did Django Reinhardt’s improvisational style influence this brass arrangement of a jazz classic? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Django Reinhardt: The Gypsy Jazz Pioneer
Django Reinhardt was a legendary jazz guitarist, and while he is most often associated with the genre of Gypsy jazz, he did have some interactions with traditional jazz tunes like "Tiger Rag." Here are some interesting facts about Django Reinhardt and his connection to "Tiger Rag":
Gypsy Jazz Pioneer: Django Reinhardt is often credited with pioneering the Gypsy jazz genre, also known as "Django jazz" or "Gypsy swing." His unique style combined traditional jazz with the Romani musical traditions he grew up with.
Limited Use of Sheet Music: Django Reinhardt was largely self-taught and had limited formal musical training. He was known for his ability to play by ear and rarely used sheet music. This skill allowed him to add his own unique flair to jazz standards like "Tiger Rag."
"Tiger Rag": "Tiger Rag" is a famous jazz standard, originally composed by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band in 1917. Django Reinhardt and his Hot Club of France band, featuring violinist Stéphane Grappelli, recorded their version of "Tiger Rag" in 1934. This recording is considered one of the early masterpieces of Gypsy jazz and is known for its energetic and virtuosic guitar work by Django.
Incorporating Romani Influences: Django Reinhardt's Romani heritage had a significant influence on his musical style. When playing songs like "Tiger Rag," he would often infuse them with elements of Romani music, such as fast arpeggios, rapid fingerpicking, and exotic scales, which added a distinctive flavor to his renditions.
Two-Fingered Guitar Playing: One of the most remarkable aspects of Django Reinhardt's career is that he achieved his incredible guitar virtuosity despite a severe hand injury. In 1928, a fire in his caravan severely damaged his left hand, leaving his ring finger and pinkie on that hand largely paralyzed. Despite this limitation, he developed a unique two-fingered guitar technique that allowed him to play with astonishing speed and precision.
Musical Legacy: Django Reinhardt's influence on the world of jazz and guitar playing is immeasurable. Many guitarists cite him as a major inspiration, and his style continues to influence musicians across various genres. His recordings of "Tiger Rag" and other classics remain iconic in the history of jazz.
Ongoing Popularity: Django Reinhardt's music, including his rendition of "Tiger Rag," continues to be popular and widely listened to by jazz enthusiasts and guitarists. His albums, such as "Django Reinhardt and the Quintet of the Hot Club of France" and "Djangology," remain cherished classics in the jazz canon.
Django Reinhardt's innovative and spirited approach to music, combined with his unique guitar techniques, left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, and his interpretation of "Tiger Rag" stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.