Master swing fiddlers Paul Anastasio and Paul Shelasky, with the irrepressible Tony Marcus on guitar and vocals, round out the Esprit de Django et Stephane Festival with a tasty evening of hot swing, torchy ballads, and blues.

Hailing from Seattle, Paul Anastasio was the last student of the immensely influential originator of jazz violin, Joe Venuti, and has played with Asleep at the Wheel and many other swing outfits, in addition to country greats Merle Haggard and Loretta Lynn. While Paul Shelasky may be best known for his bluegrass fiddle talents, he can really tear up a swing number! Both Pauls are also heavily influenced by the playing of jazz violinists Svend Asmussen and Stuff Smith, as well as by the legendary Stephane Grappelli. With Tony (longtime member of the Cheap Suit Serenaders, Cats and Jammers, Leftover Dreams) joining them on guitar and vocals, this is a trio that can't be beat, as evidenced by their 2006 CD, Two Pauls, No Waiting.

The Freight swings like it's never swung before when the Esprit de Django et Stephane Festival sets the stage sizzling with three nights of music and three days of workshops inspired and influenced by the legendary European jazz band, Quintette du Hot Club de France. Fronted by gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt and virtuoso violinist Stephane Grappelli, the Paris-based combo revolutionized jazz in the 1930s and '40s by applying an irresistible, string-fueled propulsion to the more sedate big-band sound of the time. This weekend's festival showcases some modern heirs of Django's and Stephane's hot jazz sound.

Learn more about the festival

Visit Tony Marcus's website

Visit Paul Anastasio's website

Listen to a track from Tony Marcus, Paul Shelasky & Paul Anastasio: