Born in 1966 in Saverne, Alsace, Biréli Lagrène is widely regarded as one of the most influential jazz guitarists of his generation. Raised in a family of Gypsy musicians, he began playing guitar at an early age, following in the footsteps of Django Reinhardt. His early recordings in the 1980s (Routes to Django, Swing ’81, Fifteen) quickly drew attention for their virtuosity, musical maturity, and improvisational depth.
Throughout his career, Lagrène has developed a personal and versatile musical language, blending Gypsy jazz, swing, modern jazz, and fusion. He has performed and recorded with many leading artists including Stéphane Grappelli, Jaco Pastorius, John McLaughlin, Al Di Meola, Paco de Lucía, Larry Coryell, Stanley Clarke, and Didier Lockwood.
Among his most notable projects are his duo with Sylvain Luc, praised for its refined musical interplay, and the celebrated Gipsy Project, which brought renewed visibility to the Gypsy jazz tradition through a modern lens.
Current activity
Lagrène continues to be highly active on the international scene. He currently leads an electric trio with William Brunard (double bass) and Raphaël Pannier (drums), exploring contemporary jazz and improvisation with precision and creative freedom. In parallel, he leads an acoustic trio with Diego Imbert and Hono Winterstein, with whom he recently recorded Biréli Lagrène Plays Loulou Gasté (2023), a tribute to one of France’s great chanson composers.
Awards and educational engagement
Over the years, Biréli Lagrène has received numerous accolades, including the Django d’Or, Victoires de la Musique, and the distinction of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres. In addition to performing worldwide, he regularly shares his knowledge and experience through masterclasses and educational collaborations.
His visit to the American School of Modern Music, for a concert at the New Morning and an exclusive student masterclass, offers a rare opportunity to engage with a musician whose career continues to inspire across generations.