Django Reinhardt

23 January 1910 – 16 May 1953

Django Reinhardt was a Belgian-born Romani-French jazz guitarist and composer regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Despite a hand injury that limited two fingers, he pioneered the 'gypsy jazz' style and co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France.

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Well-documented people whose lives overlapped with Django Reinhardt.

Life events

Born in Liberchies, Belgium
23 January 1910

Jean 'Django' Reinhardt was born into a Romani family in Belgium.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Birth ✓
Injured in a caravan fire
1928

A fire severely burned Reinhardt's left hand, leaving two fingers partially paralyzed.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Personal ✓
Developed a new guitar technique
c. 1929

Reinhardt relearned the guitar using an adapted fingering method, creating his distinctive style.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France
1934

With violinist Stephane Grappelli, Reinhardt formed the influential all-string jazz group.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Composed 'Minor Swing' and 'Nuages'
c. 1937

Reinhardt wrote several enduring jazz standards during his career.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Toured the United States with Duke Ellington
1946

Reinhardt performed in America as a guest soloist with Duke Ellington's orchestra.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Career ✓
Explored bebop and electric guitar
1951

In his later years Reinhardt embraced modern jazz styles and amplified guitar.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Career ✓
Died in Samois-sur-Seine, France
16 May 1953

Reinhardt died of a brain hemorrhage at age 43.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Death ✓