The Eddie Lang Jazz Festival
About the Festival
The Eddie Lang Jazz Festival is an annual event that celebrates the life and music of jazz guitarist Eddie Lang. The festival was founded in 1995 by Lang’s daughter, Barbara Lang, and has been held in Lang’s hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, every year since.
The festival features a variety of jazz performances, including traditional jazz, swing, and gypsy jazz. The festival also includes workshops, lectures, and other events related to jazz guitar.
Eddie Lang
Eddie Lang (October 25, 1902 – March 26, 1933) was an American jazz guitarist and banjoist. He was one of the most influential guitarists of the early 20th century, and his playing helped to define the sound of jazz guitar.
Lang was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and began playing guitar at an early age. He was influenced by a variety of musicians, including Django Reinhardt, Lonnie Johnson, and Wes Montgomery.
Lang’s career was cut short when he died of tuberculosis in 1933, at the age of 30. However, his legacy continues to live on through his recordings and the influence he had on other guitarists.
The Festival Lineup
The Eddie Lang Jazz Festival lineup varies from year to year, but typically includes a mix of traditional jazz, swing, and gypsy jazz performances. The festival also features workshops, lectures, and other events related to jazz guitar.
Some of the artists who have performed at the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival include:
- Django Reinhardt
- Lonnie Johnson
- Wes Montgomery
- Bucky Pizzarelli
- Howard Alden
- Frank Vignola
- Vinny Raniolo
Tickets and Information
Tickets for the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival can be purchased online or at the door. The festival is held at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
For more information about the Eddie Lang Jazz Festival, please visit the festival website.
Contact Information
Eddie Lang Jazz Festival
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S Broad St
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 790-5800