Hono Winterstein

Hono Winterstein, whose birth name is Paul Winterstein, was born on February 27, 1962, in Forbach, France. Recognized as an accomplished guitarist in the gypsy jazz genre, Winterstein has graced numerous stages and has collaborated with an array of notable musicians throughout his distinguished career.

Raised in an environment where music was a significant part of cultural life, Winterstein’s initiation into the world of music was seemingly predestined. He started learning the guitar at an early age, and his talents quickly evolved, leading him to become a respected figure in the gypsy jazz community.

Winterstein has been a key player in several renowned ensembles, including the Dorado Quartet, Gypsy Reunion, and World Sinti Jazz Ensemble. His exceptional skills as a rhythm guitarist have been instrumental in shaping the sound of these groups, providing the rhythmic backbone that gypsy jazz is famous for.

While playing with the Dorado Quartet, Winterstein’s rhythmic precision and musical intuition complemented Dorado Schmitt’s virtuosic solos, creating a compelling musical dialogue. In the World Sinti Jazz Ensemble, his contributions helped to fuse the distinctive sounds of gypsy jazz with other global music traditions, showcasing the versatility of the genre.

Winterstein’s talents were not limited to live performances. He also made a significant contribution to cinema when he appeared in the Django Reinhardt biopic “Django”. His participation in this film not only highlighted his musical prowess but also gave him the opportunity to honor the legacy of Django Reinhardt, a key figure in the development of gypsy jazz.

Winterstein’s dedication to his craft and his ability to seamlessly blend into various musical contexts have earned him respect in the gypsy jazz community. His musical journey, marked by rich collaborations and memorable performances, has made him a vital torchbearer of the gypsy jazz tradition.