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Dorado Schmitt

About this Artist

Composer and jazz performer DORADO SCHMITT was born in St. Avold in Lorraine, France, May 29, 1957. Since his childhood, in a family devoted to music, he was immersed in gypsy jazz. At the age of seven, his father introduced him to the music of the master, the great Django Reinhardt. Under this influence, he improved his style by playing the music of the master, even the most technical solos, in order to master the Django style. His father also introduced him to the violin, which Dorado plays with the same feeling. In 1978, he formed the Dorado Trio. Wishing not merely to copy the Django style, he began to compose his own music, harmonious melodies with smart improvisations, and an exceptional technique. He is as comfortable in the swing and the gypsy waltz as in the bossa nova and flamenco styles. Between 1981 and 1983 he recorded two LPs, Hommage à la Romenes and Notre Histoire, earning himself a spot on Germany’s best-seller list. He has played with famous musicians including Oscar Peterson, and taken part in festivals in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Greece. In 2002 he took part in several concerts with Bireli Lagrène. Despite his star status, this gifted musician charms by his kindness and his simplicity, and all the gypsies are proud of him.