Van Django

March 30, 2024

The Square, Vancouver, Canada

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VAN DJANGO

Van Django is an acoustic string ensemble made up of four of Canada's most talented and eclectic musicians; violinist Cameron Wilson, guitarist Budge Schatke, guitarist/cellist Finn Manniche and bassist Brent Gubbels. Van Django's music is well-rooted in the gypsy jazz of 1930's Paris France, but beyond that it's all pure blue-skying; flights of dazzling fancy, driving rhythms and boundless creativity featuring original compositions and arrangements including humorous mash-ups that showcase their eclectic influences in full regalia.

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Since the group's formation in 1998, they have toured extensively in Canada as well as international forays to the USA, Europe and China. The group has had repeat performances at Djangofest Northwest (DFNW) on Whidbey Island in 2008, 2010 and 2016.

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Van Django has released 4 CDs - Tiptoe Trip, Waltz in the Shape of a Tree, Hotel Europe and a Christmas themed outing with special guests LJ Mounteney and Keith Bennett titled Cool Yule. Their CDs have been well received and played on many radio stations at home and abroad including; CBC, RDI, Espace Musique, CFRO, CiTR, NPR and Lyric FM in Ireland.

Perhaps Nick Lehr, director of Djangofest Northwest, summed it up best describing Van Django when he said: "In an increasingly crowded niche, Van Django is a standout act. With a clever mix of contemporary standards, classical ditties, rock homages and solid originals they effortlessly whip the audience into a joyful frenzy. Attending a Van Django concert is the most fun you can have sitting down with your clothes on."