django interviewed

steven_eire · March 2008

on integral vol. 12 disc 1 there is an interview with the man himself with an organ playing in the background. Is there a transcript and or english translation of this interview available anywhere? or any other translated interviews anyone knows of would be great

Thanks, steven

pdaigle · March 2008

If you can send me an MP3, I will gladly translate it for you.

scot · March 2008

Here is Lauren Oliver's transcript of the interview from the radio broadcast:

Introduction:

VO: In the Chapel of the National Institute for Blind Children, Django Reinhardt will, for the first time, hear his mass played on the organ, which he has written especially for the gypsies. (Organ begins to play)

Interview:

Announcer: Could you tell me Mr Reinhardt, what has compelled you to write this mass?
DR: All the gypsies in the entire world have made use of foreign masses for many centuries. I have written this mass to be interpreted by choir and organ.
A: And in what surroundings do you isolate yourself in order to write - it's not a question of surroundings. For you certainly cannot do it after a jazz concert?
DR: I prefer to write in the evening very late or in the morning in my bed.
A: And did you notate the music?
DR: No, it's not I who notates the music. It's my clarinetist in the Quintet of the Hot Club of France, Gerard Leveque. I dictate it to him.
A: And is today the first recital of your mass?
DR: It is an extract of my mass. I particularily don't know the ending. It's the first time I have heard the composition on the organ.
A: Certainly you know, Mr Reinhardt, that in the world and particularily in France, it is said that you are the king of the gypsies. Is that accurate?
DR: No, no, no, don't think that. But it might come to pass, perhaps one day. I am very loved by them, and I thank them by offering to them this mass. (Organ continues to play)

The mass is quite beautiful and dignified. Maybe this will clear up some questions.