January 23 - 26, 2014

The Freight swings like it's never swung before when the Esprit de Django et Stephane Festival sets the stage sizzling with four nights of music inspired and influenced by the legendary jazz band, Quintette du Hot Club de France. Fronted by gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt and virtuoso violinist Stéphane Grappelli, the Paris-based combo revolutionized jazz in the 1930s and 40s by applying an irresistible, string-fueled propulsion to the more sedate big-band sound of the time.

Festival Events

Thursday, January 23:

Hot Club of Marin (lobby band), 7-8 pm

Hot Club of Cowtown, 8 pm

Friday, January 24:

Hot Fiddle "How To" w/ Elana James, 11 am - noon

Swing Guitar EXTRA II w/ Whit Smith, 11 am - noon

Hot Club of Marin (lobby band), 7-8 pm

David Grisman Sextet, 8 pm

Saturday, January 25:

Introduction to Gypsy Jazz Guitar for Beginners Only w/ George Cole, 2-3:30 pm

Free Open Jam w/ George Cole & pals, 4-5 pm

Bobbi Nikkles (lobby band), 7-8 pm

Turtle Island Quartet, 8 pm

Sunday, January 26:

Strings Workshop w/ Mads Tolling, 2-3:30 pm

New Baguette Quartette (lobby band), 7-8 pm

George Cole, 8 pm