Greatly influenced by the music of Django Reinhardt, virtuoso guitarist Denis Chang’s formative years were spent alongside the greatest jazz manouche guitarists such as Fapy Lafertin, Ritary Gaguenetti and Emmanuel Kassimo to name just a few.
Gypsy jazz, also known as Gypsy swing, is often referred to by its French roots name, jazz manouche, which combines a dark, chromatic Gypsy flavour with the swing articulation of the 1930s.
Chang has developed his own style inspired by various styles of music from the classical to the contemporary periods. Known as “the godfather of the Montreal Gypsy jazz scene” Chang is said to play “faster than his shadow”. Performing with his jazz manouche quartet consisting of guitars, upright bass and sax, this award-winning musician engages his audiences from the first note.
As a teacher, Chang is much sought after for master classes and workshops. The Creston Concert Society is pleased to be able to offer this opportunity in Creston. The workshop is limited to 10 participants of intermediate/ advanced level players. The workshop is $10 for adult and $5 for student season ticket holders. For non-season subscribers, it is $40 for adults and $30 for students — the non-member fee includes a ticket to the concert.
Those interested in registering for the workshop should call Marg at 250-428-7033 or e-mail don_and_marg@hotmail.com. The workshop takes place at the Prince Charles Theatre at 3:30 p.m. on April 17 followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.
— CRESTON CONCERT SOCIETY