Django Reinhardt´s mother
Laurence Reinhardt, born in Plouhinec, Morbihan, Bretagne, France on May 24, 1884, was a woman who dedicated her life to the art of dance and jazz music. She was the daughter of Jean and Lisa Reinhardt and was affectionately known as “Négros” for her “dark beauty”.
Laurence was married to Jean Eugène Weiss, and together they had two sons, Django Reinhardt and Joseph “Nin-Nin” Reinhardt.
Laurence’s love for dance began at a young age, and she quickly became a skilled performer. She was known for her graceful movements and expressive style, and her talents would eventually lead her to become a professional dancer. She often performed alongside her family, including her husband and children, in various jazz clubs and music halls across France.
Laurence’s passion for jazz music was evident in everything she did. She was deeply influenced by African American culture and the music of jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong. Her love of jazz was contagious, and she passed it on to her children at an early age. She bought Django his first guitar when he was just a young boy, and her unwavering support and encouragement helped him to become one of the greatest guitarists in jazz history.
Laurence’s influence extended beyond her immediate family. She was a beloved figure in the jazz community, and her performances inspired countless others to take up the art of dance. Her dedication to jazz and her unwavering commitment to excellence in her craft earned her the respect and admiration of many in the music industry.
Sadly, Laurence passed away on June 23, 1958, at the age of 74 in Saint-Denis, Seine St Denis, Île-De-France, France. However, her legacy lives on through her children and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her performances.