The European Swing Jazz Quintet
THE EUROPEAN SWING JAZZ QUINTET
a compelling dialogue between the drummerless European jazz tradition – pioneered by Django Reinhardt – and the music of its American founders.
MASSIMILIANO SARTORI • GUITAR
STEFANO IVALDI • VIOLIN
DAVE KELBIE • GUITAR
CARLO STUPIGGIA • GUITAR
PIPPI DIMONTE • BASS
An inspired European collaboration redefining the sound of the contemporary string jazz ensemble
THE EUROPEAN SWING JAZZ QUINTET
An international collaboration uniting four of Italy’s most expressive string players with British guitarist and bandleader Dave Kelbie. A compelling dialogue between the drummerless European jazz tradition pioneered by Django Reinhardt and the music of its American founders — defined by rhythmic drive, lyricism, and a deep passion for the music’s origins.
Born from a sold-out performance on April 7th 2026 in the extremely beautiful Teatro Alice Zeppilli, inside the Music Museum in Pieve di Cento near Bologna, The European Swing Jazz Quintet has a particularly fitting connection to its place of origin. Pieve di Cento is closely linked to the history and legacy of Mario Maccaferri, making the theatre an ideal setting for the band’s debut. The museum houses instruments made by his nephew, Alessandro Maccaferri, alongside historical instruments connected with this musical tradition. The Selmer-Maccaferri guitar, made iconic by Django Reinhardt, remains one of the central inspirations behind the band’s sound.
Massimiliano Sartori
lead guitarist recognised for his articulate phrasing and rich melodic imagination. Mentored by the great Fapy Lafertin, he has a growing reputation on the Italian jazz scene, drawing from the Manouche tradition while shaping a distinctly individual voice.
Stefano Ivaldi
a violinist of elegance, finesse and fire, combining classical poise with improvisational freedom. Frontman of the Stefano Ivaldi Quartet, his playing is characterised by the lyrical sensitivity and interplay of his two heroes, Joe Venuti and Stéphane Grappelli.
Carlo Stupiggia
rhythm guitarist with a distinctive dynamic pulse, combining the heritage of Gypsy swing accompaniment with a refined sense of texture and balance.
Pippi Dimonte
without question one of Italy’s most versatile double bassists, at home in jazz, folk or contemporary settings. His full tone, inventive lines and hard-swinging attitude are standout characteristics of his performances.
Dave Kelbie
rhythm guitarist, bandleader and arranger who for three decades has taken leading roles in major jazz and world-music projects such as Fapy Lafertin & Lejazz, Django à la Créole, Szapora, Don Vappie & Jazz Creole, and The Dime Notes. A central figure in European string jazz, Kelbie is recognised for bringing together world-class musicians in collaborations that celebrate musical innovation within traditional music.
MASSIMILIANO SARTORI OFFICIAL SITE
Dave Kelbie’s rhythm guitar is undoubtedly one of the best in the world
CLASSICA FRANCE
Kelbie is the motor tonight, providing a strict, subtle pulse – whatever the tempo
THE GUARDIAN UK
the rhythmic rumbling of a folksy freight train
JAZZ DA GAMA USA
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