Impressions of Paris

Violinist Susannah Simmons (Orchestra of Opera North) and friends welcome you to the musical melting pot of early 20th-century Paris.

Hear music from the evolution of a new genre, which became known as Jazz Manouche (Gypsy Jazz), through the lesser-known works of legendary Manouche guitarist and composer Django Reinhardt. Witness how recent French classical composers helped influence his exploratory sound world.

Susannah Simmons and guitarists Vernon Bigsby and Gerard Paul Cavallari (collectively known as Trio Boba Swing) transport you to the “underground” happenings of the Hot Club of France whilst mezzo-soprano Amy J Payne and pianist Philip Voldman provide a glimpse into Parisian chanson in the concert halls “above ground”, through composers including Ravel and Debussy.

A juxtaposition of musical worlds that was separated by society but connected by artists.

Part of the Kirklees Concert Season.