Stéphane Grappelli - Un violon pour tout bagage

Stéphane Grappelli (January 26, 1908 – December 1, 1997) was a pioneer jazz violinist who founded the "Quintette du Hot Club de France" with Django Reinhardt. It was the first all-string jazz band.
He was born in Paris, France to Italian parents and started his musical career as a silent film pianist. He attended the Conservatoire de Paris between 1924 and 1928.
After his career with Reinhardt, he appeared on hundreds of recordings including sessions with jazz pianist Oscar Peterson, jazz violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, vibraphonist Gary Burton, pop singer Paul Simon, mandolin player David Grisman, rock band Pink Floyd, classical violinist Yehudi Menuhin and orchestral conductor André Previn.

In the summer of 1991, at the Jazz Festival at Juan-les-Pins, Jazz à Juan, I had the privilege to see and hear Stéphane Grappelli play. And, without exaggeration, I have to say it was one of the most marvellous concerts I’ve ever seen. First - the place it self, second – a beautiful summer night. First a “Super-group” with Didier Lockwood, Birelli Lagrene, Christian Escoude, Babick Reinhardt and others (I believe it was a Septet) – a big show on a huge stage, with lots of lights and sounds and special effects – it was great, and the audience loved it. Then a small break and afterwards – an old man and his violin, a guitar and a double bass, just one spot light and the magic of the music, nothing more and nothing less – I’ve never seen an audience that enthusiastic, that emotional, that grateful. It was truly unforgettable. Thank You, Stéphane.