Since 2004, organizer and musician Andrew Lawrence has been putting on his annual Django in June festival in beautiful Northampton, Massachusetts. Past years have seen Andrew bring in The Robin Nolan Trio, John Jorgenson and his quintet, Stephane Wrembel with both trio and quartet, and Lollo Meier. This year’s a bit different: what used to be a Friday through Sunday mix of workshops, jamming and concerts has been extended to almost a full week’s worth of gypsy jazz. Writes Andrew:
I want to announce that this year Django in June will offer a 6-day Django Camp option for folks who really want to dig in. Our goal is to provide relative newcomers a strong introduction to the style while giving experienced GJ’ers the opportunity to take their playing to the next level with the support of expert teachers and players. All while having a grand old time. While a good book or a 2-hour clinic is way better than nothing, I think it’s time North American players had this kind of opportunity for more sustained connection and guidance…and I hope I’m not alone!
For more information on Django Camp visit Andrew’s web site. He’s really made it as easy as possible to take part, providing central housing for everyone right on the Smith College campus in a historic stone house, prepared meals, etc. The list of musicians heading up workshops is a veritable Who’s Who of today’s Gypsy Jazz scene: Wawau Adler, Stephane Wrembel, Emmanuel Kassimo, Michael Horowitz (of Djangobooks.com), Ted Gottsegen, Tim Kliphuis, and more. It should be a great opportunity for any and all students of the style. As it happens, I live right down the street, so I hope to see some of you there!
Of course, the festival isn’t just for musicians-it also features a full slate of concerts on Friday and Saturday night. Old friends Wrembel and Kassimo head up Friday’s show, while Adler and violinist Kliphuis take over on Saturday, joined by the young phenom Kruno Spisic and accordionist Vladimir Mollov. I’m told that Andrew still has some additional events in the works, so be sure to check back as we draw near to June!
Some photos from last year:

(l to r: Stephane Wrembel & Andreas Oberg jamming at the dorm, front porch jam, late night jam with David Langlois on beer cooler)

(l to r: Jamming on the Smith campus, Lawrence House dormitory, post-concert jam on the porch)