Django Reinhardt, one of the most influential jazz guitarists in history, is renowned not only for his incredible talent but also for his distinct choice of instruments. The type of guitar he played played a significant role in shaping his unique sound and style.
Selmer Maccaferri Guitar
The most iconic guitar associated with Django Reinhardt is the Selmer Maccaferri guitar. Designed by Italian luthier Mario Maccaferri and produced by the Selmer company in France, this guitar became synonymous with Django and the Gypsy jazz genre.
Characteristics of the Selmer Maccaferri Guitar
- Oval Sound Hole: Unlike many traditional guitars that have a round sound hole, the Selmer Maccaferri guitar features a distinctive D-shaped sound hole. This design contributes to its unique tonal qualities.
- Large Body: The guitar has a larger body compared to typical classical guitars, which enhances its volume and projection, making it well-suited for ensemble playing.
- Tailpiece and Floating Bridge: The Selmer Maccaferri uses a tailpiece and floating bridge setup. This design allows for greater sustain and a more resonant sound, which complements Django’s fast, intricate playing style.
- Steel Strings: Unlike classical guitars that use nylon strings, the Selmer Maccaferri is strung with steel strings. This gives it a brighter, punchier sound that cuts through the mix in a band setting.
Django’s Customizations
Django Reinhardt was known for making personal modifications to his guitars to suit his playing style. After a fire in 1928 severely injured his left hand, Django had to adapt his playing technique. He developed a method of playing using only two fingers on his fretting hand, which influenced his approach to the instrument. The unique setup of the Selmer Maccaferri guitar complemented his innovative technique, allowing him to produce the fast, fluid runs and distinctive rhythmic comping that became his trademark.
Other Guitars Used by Django
While the Selmer Maccaferri is the guitar most closely associated with Django, he played other instruments throughout his career:
- Banjo-Guitar: In his early years, Django played a banjo-guitar, a hybrid instrument with six strings tuned like a guitar but with a banjo body. This instrument contributed to his early development as a musician.
- Epiphone Guitars: Later in his career, especially during his time in the United States, Django was seen playing Epiphone guitars, including models like the Epiphone Zephyr. These guitars offered a different tonal palette and allowed Django to explore new musical territories.
- Other Selmer Models: Django also used other Selmer models, some of which had modifications to suit his evolving style and the demands of different musical contexts.
The Legacy of Django’s Guitar Choice
Django Reinhardt’s choice of the Selmer Maccaferri guitar has left a lasting legacy in the world of jazz and beyond. The distinct sound of this guitar, combined with Django’s innovative playing technique, helped define the Gypsy jazz genre. Today, many guitarists who play Gypsy jazz seek out Selmer-style guitars or modern replicas to capture the authentic sound pioneered by Django.
Conclusion
The Selmer Maccaferri guitar played a pivotal role in Django Reinhardt’s musical journey. Its unique design and tonal characteristics complemented his innovative playing style, allowing him to create a sound that continues to inspire musicians worldwide. Django’s legacy is not only in his extraordinary talent but also in his choice of instrument, which has become an integral part of his enduring influence on jazz and guitar music.