Jonny Hepbir specialises in playing jazz guitar in the style of the great Django Reinhardt.

He came to this style of music in the early 90’s after starting out playing flamenco/jazz when he proved such a success that he was signed to a record label. From here he worked on the professional concert/workshop circuit until deciding that his heart was really set on playing a different style of guitar music – the Gypsy Jazz style of Django!

Jonny has gone from strength to strength, releasing albums on both sides of the Atlantic and playing with some of the great names in Gypsy Jazz such as Angelo Debarre, Birele Lagrene, Lulu Reinhardt and Paulus Schafer. He has worked with some of the finest musicians in his field and played festivals such as Festival Django Reinhardt 2013 in Samois sur Seine, The International Gypsy Guitar Festival, L’Esprit Manouche Festivals, Beachdown Festival and the International Guitar Festival 2003 as a member of the Bireli Lagrene Quintette.

Photos/Video

Jonny also plays jazz in the more traditional style where he plays jazz standards, Latin and Swing for all manner of events from receptions, weddings dinners and corporate events. He is also the leader of Acoustic Swing, a superb Gypsy Jazz outfit playing very much in the Django Reinhardt style from a duo to larger ensembles.Jonny has performed live throughout Europe at festivals and in concert with numerous groups including ‘Ultraswing’, John Etheridge’s group ‘Sweet Chorus’, The Dave Kelbie quartet and ‘Acoustic Swing’.

Audio Samples

SELECT A TRACK

Since my first encounter with Jonny Hepbir at the l’esprit Manouche festival 2003, I’ve been impressed by his technique and authentic Gypsy sound. Jonny has performed with many of the great guitarists in the style and he’s been a leading player on the UK Gypsy Jazz scene for years.

Swedish guitar wizard - Andreas Oberg

Performance options

Duo

Johny Hepbir plus Guitarist OR Bass player

Trio

Two Guitars & Bass

Quartet

Two Guitars & Bass plus Clarinet OR Violin

Quintet

Quartet plus female singer