Fapy Question

pallopenna

I looked at Michael's listing for Fapy's Star Eyes and, not for the first time, there's a reference to him being at the height of his powers. I can't recall seeing another living player described this way. It sounds more like a description of an aging sports star. Is Fapy generally considered to be past his prime (whatever that means)? If so, why? I've enjoyed his most recent recordings, so I'm just curious.

Thanks,
-Paul

dennis

he's not past his prime, he's still a fabulous player, but he's playing a lot less these days due to health reasons

edan13390

Does Fapy still give masterclasses? If so, has anyone been too one?

pallopenna

Thanks Dennis. I don't know his personal history, but from what I can hear on his recordings, his playing is wonderful. Shelley Park told me that she thinks of him as really channeling Django. He has a beautiful sense of melody.

ssherry

Hi there,

Apologies for the late reply, I've just read this thread. I hope you are still following it.

RE the question “Is Fapy generally considered to be past his prime” - no way, that would be a contradiction in terms. How can a player as masterful as Fapy Lafertin ever be passed his best? To be honest I find it quite ridiculous that people could even consider making such statements. Players of his stature only get better, as do average players that are dedicated.

Fapy does still give master classes; I attended one with him last year. I'm fairly new to gypsy jazz and in retrospect could've done with waiting another year or so before going to Fapy. Having said that, he picked up on some fundamental flaws in my playing and technique, which I would've unaware of had he not pointed them out. His advice has really helped me develop and my playing has improved 100% since the master class. I’ll definitely go back to him for another instalment in the coming years. My advice is do it, but prepare some tunes before you go, so that you have a basis for the master class.