10 jazz violinists to listen to: Jazz violin for classical players

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Since I’m a classically trained violinist, I mainly stick to discussing classical violin here on Violin Class.

But, I know I have a lot of jazz-curious listeners, which is why I’ve invited Matt Holborn of the Jazz Violin podcast to join me.

Although we focus on the gypsy jazz/jazz manouche tradition in the podcast episode, this is just a small slice of how violin is played in the larger genre of jazz.

If you’re brand new to jazz violin, here are 10 jazz violinists to check out to get you started in your listening.

Ten jazz violinists to listen to

Stephane Grappelli

Stephane Grappelli was a French jazz violinist best known for playing with the Hot club of France Quintet wiht guitarist Django Reinhadrt.

Stuff Smith

Stuff Smith was an American jazz vioilnist born in 1909, and was one of jazz music’s most well-known violinists in the swing era.

Didier Lockwood

Didier Lockwood was a French violinist who played in the French rock band Magma in the 90’s, and was known for his experimentation on electric violin.

Joe Venuti

Joe Venuti was born in 1903 and was a pioneer jazz violinist— considered the father of jazz violin, he played with guitarist Eddie lang throughout the 1920’s and 30’s.

Leroy Jenkins

Leroy Jenkins was an American composer and played both the violin and viola. He played with musicians such as Alice Coltrane and Chick Corea.

Regina Carter

Regina Carter is an American jazz violinist, and has an extensive discography as both a band leader and member.

Florin Niculescu

Florin niculescu is a Romanian Romani violinist, and is from a musical family.

Tcha Limberger

Tcha Limberger is a Belgian violinist who plays in the gypsy swing style of Django Reinhardt.

Vassar Clements

Dubbed as the Father of Hillbilly Jazz, Vassar Clements was well known for his blend of swing and bluegrass with roots in country and other folk traditions.