Moreno Winterstein

Born in Saargemünd in 1963, Lucien Moreno Winterstein, widely recognized by his stage name Moreno, is a highly acclaimed French jazz guitarist renowned for his expertise in traditional Gypsy Jazz.

Moreno’s musical journey began at a young age under the guidance of his father, who was his first guitar teacher. As he matured, his brothers also played an instrumental role in honing his skills. The Schmitt brothers, Dorado and Tchavolo, both prominent figures in Gypsy Jazz, greatly influenced his early development as a musician.

As a young man, Moreno took to the streets of Toulon, playing music to passersby. It was during this period that he crossed paths with Tchan Tchou Vidal, a seasoned musician who took Moreno under his wing. Vidal furthered Moreno’s training and even performed alongside him, fostering his growth as a professional musician.

A significant turn of events in Moreno’s career occurred in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where he received valuable advice from Manitas de Plata, a renowned Flamenco guitarist. He encouraged Moreno to relocate to Paris, a city known for its vibrant music scene.

Heeding this advice, Moreno moved to Paris where he met Marina, a singer. Their mutual passion for music led them to form a band, further cementing Moreno’s place in the world of Gypsy Jazz.

Moreno’s talents were not just confined to the stage. He was featured in the film “Les Fils du Vent” by Bruno Le Jean, where he shared screen space with fellow guitarists Angelo Debarre, Tchavolo Schmitt, and Ninine Garcia. This film, released in 2003, showcased the rich culture and talent of the Gypsy Jazz community and was also released on DVD.

Moreno’s discography also includes collaborations with other artists. His distinctive guitar work can be heard on recordings by Robert de Brasov and with the Hot Club de Norvège, further broadening his reach in the music industry.

Through his dedication and passion for music, Moreno Winterstein has carved out a remarkable career in the world of traditional Gypsy Jazz, earning respect and admiration from both his peers and fans alike.