Djangolaya was founded in 2014 at Django in June, a music camp dedicated to the music of Django Reinhardt. While at this annual gathering of amazing musicians in Massachusetts, three musicians discovered that they actually lived only a few minutes from each other in the Maryland suburbs of Washington. Drawing on relationships with friends and other great musicians, Djangolaya presents a wide range of musical configurations from an intimate duo to a six piece ensemble that really swings. We often draw on our large network of gypsy jazz enthusiasts to augment our group to suit any occasion.
Jeanine Greene, Vocals and violin A talented singer and violinist, Jeanine is equally comfortable with the styles of the Paris bistro, Big Bands, or vocal harmony groups. In addition to playing with Djangolaya, Jeanine is featured in the Tom Cunningham Orchestra, and YazooZazz.
Charlie Schueller, Accordion One of the leaders of the DC Gypsy Jazz Community, Charlie is passionate about the revival of accordion in both traditional and contemporary music. When not playing accordion, Charlie plays piano with his own quartet, and other jazz musicians in the Baltimore/Washington area.
Andrew Deshler, Guitar Andrew is a master of “Le Pompe”, the pulsating rhythm guitar playing that characterizes the music of Django. When not playing with Djangolaya, Andrew is also the anchor for the Hot Club of DC providing the rhythmic foundation for their blazing solos.
Jason Gekker, Bass Jason Gekker, born in NYC and raised in the DC area, is a conservatory trained classical musician and plays with symphonies in MD and VA. He is also in demand as a jazz bassist and has performed with the Hot Club of DC, DC Ambiance and Djangolaya.
Suzanne Gekker, Woodwinds Suzanne Gekker, clarinetist, is an active performer throughout the Washington, DC area in a wide range of genres. Originally from New Orleans, she has enjoyed a professional classical music career in Cincinnati, New York City and here in DC. She also plays with local Traditional Jazz, Gypsy Jazz and Ragtime Ensembles.
James Key, Guitar James Key has been playing music throughout the DC area for over 25 years. He’s appeared on stage at the Barns at Wolf Trap, the 9:30 Club, the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center. A rediscovery of the guitar and one week at Django guitar camp was all it took for James to focus his efforts. You will see more of James on stage playing tunes from the Django songbook.
Djangolaya 