Ann Arbor Django Reinhardt Festival

The Ann Arbor Django Reinhardt Festival is held at The Ark as a tribute to the music and legacy of jazz guitar pioneer Django Reinhardt. The event is hosted by guitarist Andrew Brown, a long-time advocate for Hot Club music in Michigan who has contributed to developing the local Django community through performances and educational activities.

Featured performers include Sam Farthing, a rising young voice in jazz manouche known for his virtuosic technique and expressive improvisation, with appearances at major Django festivals across North America and Europe. Joining him is Grant Flick, an Ann Arbor-based composer, educator, and multi-style improviser whose award-winning work spans jazz, bluegrass, chamber music, and the traditions of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli.

The full Djangophonique lineup participates as well, including clarinetist Tyler Rindo, vocalist Katie Lynne, guitarist David Bendena, and bassist Jorian Olk-Szost. The evening's program delivers swinging rhythms, dazzling solos, heartfelt melodies, and the infectious energy that has made jazz manouche a beloved global musical tradition.